Kolhapur has scored a major victory for sports infrastructure. The city's Major Dhyanchand Hockey Stadium, managed by the Kolhapur Municipal Corporation (KMC), has officially been approved by the Federation of International Hockey (FIH) to host both national and international hockey matches. This landmark certification transforms the venue into a world-class facility, paving the way for high-stakes tournaments in Maharashtra.
From Inspection to Certification: The Path to FIH Approval
The journey to this elite status involved a rigorous process. A crucial step was the installation of a state-of-the-art astroturf field, supplied by the renowned Polytan company, which meets the strict global standards set by the FIH. Following this upgrade, a delegation from the international federation conducted a detailed inspection of the stadium on November 15.
After a thorough review, the Kolhapur Municipal Corporation's efforts were rewarded. The official certificate of approval was granted on December 19, formally recognizing the stadium's readiness for top-tier competition.
Funding and Facilitation: A Government-Backed Initiative
This transformation was made possible under the central government's flagship 'Khelo India' scheme, run by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. A substantial project worth Rs 5.50 crore was sanctioned to develop the modern astroturf and essential ancillary facilities at the stadium.
Administrator K. Manjulekshmi played a pivotal role in the project's success, providing consistent follow-up and ensuring all necessary facilities were in place to meet the international benchmarks.
A New Era for Kolhapur's Hockey Talent
The implications of this development are profound for local athletes. National hockey coach Sagar Jadhav expressed great optimism about the stadium's potential. He stated that this international-grade facility will be immensely beneficial for hockey players from Kolhapur, providing them with the platform to excel.
Coach Jadhav believes that with access to such infrastructure, Kolhapur's players can now hone their skills to shine at the state and national levels, ultimately aiming to represent the Indian team on the international stage. The stadium is no longer just a local venue; it is now a launchpad for future hockey stars.
