National Sports Day was observed by SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) in a function organised at Biju Patnaik Hockey Stadium on 29th August 2025. Mr. Tarun Misra, ED (HR) graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. Present on the occasion were Mr. B K Jojo, CGM (Town Engineering & Horticulture), and other Senior Officers and employees of the Plant and Hockey Hostel, Panposh.
The dignitaries paid floral tribute at the portrait of Hockey Wizard Major Dhyan Chand, whose Birth Anniversary is being celebrated as the National Sports Day.
Paying rich tributes to legendary Major Dhyan Chand, Mr. Misra highlighted RSP’s contribution in nurturing national and international sports stars. He elaborated upon the manifold increase in the allowances and award money of sports persons by RSP which have been reviewed after 35 years to promote sporting excellence.
An Exhibition match was played between SAIL Hockey Academy and Hockey Hostel Panposh on the occasion. The Chief Guest and other Senior Officers were introduced to the players participating in the friendly match. Hockey Hostel Panposh beat SAIL Hockey Academy by 3-1 goals in the match.
During the function, ED (HR) felicitated former Captain of the Indian Junior team and longstanding Coach of SAIL Hockey Academy, Olympian Peter Tirkey.
Before the formal opening of the match National Anthem was sung followed by the administering of Fit India Pledge. The players, coaches and game officials were felicitated with token gifts on the occasion.
At the outset, Mr. A K Sabat, GM (TS-CA, Land, Administration & Sports) delivered the welcome address. Mr. Raghu Padhi, Deputy Manager (Sports) along with the Team from Sports Department coordinated the programme. Mr.Anil Mallick of Silicon Steel Mill Department anchored the event.
