Odisha government will set up its own sports body in the state to provide better facilities to the sportspersons. The Sports Authority of Odisha will be based on the model of Sports Authority of India (SAI).

The decision was taken at a review meeting of the Odisha Youth Policy 2013, by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, who directed to form the sports body in the state. It would be functional within four months.

Prior to set up the sports body in the state, the officials will go through the functions of other sports bodies of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.

With the establishment of the Sports Authority of Odisha, the sportspersons will be encouraged enough to play at district and state level. Even they will get more opportunities to show their talents in national and international games.