In a strategic move to bolster grassroots sports development, Odisha’s Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj has confirmed that discussions are underway with the School and Mass Education Department to introduce table tennis in schools across the state.
This initiative aims to nurture young talent and embed a culture of sporting excellence from an early age.
Coinciding with this push is the prestigious 28th Asian Table Tennis Team Championship, set to be hosted at Bhubaneswar’s Kalinga Stadium from October 11 to 15. This marks the first time Odisha will host the event, which returns to India after a 16-year hiatus.
Over 22 countries—including powerhouses like China, Japan, Korea, and Singapore—will compete, with more than 400 international fans expected to attend. India, which clinched three bronze medals in the previous edition, is eyeing a stronger performance this year.
Odisha’s local players will benefit from training alongside national-level athletes, gaining exposure and experience that could elevate their future prospects. The championship is organised by the International Table Tennis Federation and the Asian Table Tennis Union, adding global prestige to the event.
Minister Suraj emphasised that the dual approach—hosting an international tournament and integrating table tennis into school curricula—will create a robust pipeline for talent development and sports culture in the state.
