Minister Highlights Kodava Community's Contribution to Indian Hockey

Mansukh Mandaviya, the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, recently visited the SAI Training Centre in Madikeri, where he interacted with women hockey players from the Kodava community. He praised their significant contributions to Indian hockey and discussed the government's commitment to nurturing sports talent across the nation. Mandaviya also highlighted the importance of hosting major sporting events, such as the upcoming Commonwealth Games in 2030, to enhance India's global sports presence. The SAI Training Centre serves as a vital training hub for aspiring athletes, particularly from the Kodava community, showcasing the region's rich hockey heritage.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 2, 2026, 21:52 IST

Minister's Visit to Madikeri

Mansukh Mandaviya, the Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, visited the Sports Authority of India's (SAI) Training Centre in Madikeri. During his visit, he engaged with women hockey players from the Kodava community, marking the end of a month-long hockey festival. He emphasized the importance of nurturing talent from various regions of India to help the country achieve its goal of becoming a global sports leader.

Kodava Community's Impact on Hockey

The Minister acknowledged the significant role of the Kodava community in advancing field hockey. The Kodagu district, known as a birthplace of Indian hockey, has produced over 50 players who have represented India internationally. Notably, seven of these athletes have competed in the Summer Olympics, including renowned players such as P Govinda, MP Ganesh, MM Somaiya, and CS Poonacha.

Mandaviya shared on X, "Future Olympians in the making! Met with the rising stars of Indian Hockey from the SAI Training Centre (STC), Madikeri, Karnataka."

Advancing India's Sports Vision

Mandaviya stated that the Union Government is dedicated to creating a comprehensive sports ecosystem. He mentioned that hosting major events like the Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad in 2030 is a positive step forward. He expressed confidence that with a vast talent pool, India is poised to excel in sports on a global scale.

"Inspired by our Hon'ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision, the Sports Ministry is focused on discovering and nurturing talent from all corners of the nation. A larger talent pool increases our chances of success in major events. I believe both Indian men and women will perform exceptionally well in the Commonwealth Games in 2030, where hockey is expected to return," Mandaviya added.

Overview of SAI Training Centre, Madikeri

The SAI Training Centre (STC) in Madikeri spans 5.49 acres and is located in the scenic hill station of Kodagu District, approximately 1100 meters above sea level. It functions as a feeder centre for 22 National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) across the country. The facility includes an artificial hockey turf, a 60-bedded hostel, a dining hall, and a kitchen. Currently, around 50 girls from the Kodava community are training for various hockey competitions held throughout Karnataka.