Odisha delivered a historic performance at the Khelo India Tribal Games by clinching double gold in hockey and further strengthening its position in the overall medal tally. The state’s men’s and women’s hockey teams showcased exceptional skill and determination to emerge as champions in both categories at the inaugural edition of the games held in Raipur.

In the men’s final, Odisha dominated Jharkhand with a convincing 4 to 1 victory at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium, displaying superior teamwork and attacking prowess. The women’s team also delivered a remarkable performance, edging past Mizoram in a closely contested final with a narrow 1 to 0 win to secure the second gold medal in hockey for the state.

Apart from hockey, Odisha athletes continued to shine across other disciplines, adding significantly to the medal tally. In archery, Arjun Khara and Mamita Oram secured a silver medal in the recurve mixed event, while Keshaba Banara contributed another silver in the men’s compound category. Sagar Raita added to the tally with a bronze in the same event, and the men’s compound team comprising Sagar Raita, Keshaba Banara and Dibyaranjan Munda also claimed a bronze medal.

The success extended to track and field events as well, where Sandhya Murmu earned a silver medal in the women’s 10000 meter race, and Sunita Santa clinched a bronze in the women’s 1500 meter event, highlighting Odisha’s growing strength in athletics.

With these achievements, Odisha has consolidated its second position in the overall medal standings with an impressive haul of 17 gold, 10 silver and 16 bronze medals. Meanwhile, Karnataka continues to lead the medal tally with 21 gold medals as the competition heads into its final two days. Odisha’s strong all round performance has not only boosted its medal count but also reinforced its reputation as a rising powerhouse in Indian sports.