Odisha’s emergence as one of India’s premier hockey talent hubs received another endorsement with fourteen athletes from the Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre (HPC) earning selection to the prestigious Junior India Camp. The achievement not only highlights the growing depth of hockey talent in the state but also reflects the success of a structured ecosystem that is nurturing the next generation of national players.The selected athletes include Anmol Ekka, Adrohit Ekka, Rohit Kullu, Mukesh Toppo, Vivek Lakra, Sanjit Tirkey, Nitesh Minz, Adhikarimayum Suresh Sharma and Aryan Xess in the boys’ category, while Neharika Toppo, Drupati Naik, Sonali Ekka, Supriya Kujur and Engil Harsharani Minz have been selected among the girls.

For these young athletes, the Junior India Camp represents a significant milestone in their sporting journey. The camp serves as a crucial stepping stone in the national hockey pathway, bringing together some of the country’s most promising players for advanced training, assessment and exposure under national coaches. Selection is based on consistent performance, skill, discipline and the potential to represent India at the international level.

Adding another feather to the High Performance Centre’s cap, Engil Harsharani Minz and Supriya Kujur have now been selected from the Indian camp to join the Indian U-21 Women’s Squad for the 2026 United Kingdom Tour. Their progression from the High Performance Centre to the national squad is a proud reflection of their dedication, discipline and relentless pursuit of excellence. The duo will now have the opportunity to represent India on the international stage, marking another significant milestone for the Centre and Odisha hockey.

Behind this achievement lies years of focused investment in athlete development. Established through a unique partnership between the Government of Odisha, Tata Steel and Tata Trusts, the Odisha Naval Tata Hockey HPC has evolved into a centre of excellence that combines world-class coaching, sports science, education and athlete welfare. The integrated approach has helped young talents from diverse backgrounds transform their aspirations into opportunities on the national stage.

Expressing pride in the accomplishment, Captain Amitabh, CEO, Hockey Ace Foundation & Head, Skill Development, Disability & Sports, Tata Steel Foundation, said, “The selection of 14 athletes to the Junior India Camp is a proud moment for Odisha Naval Tata Hockey HPC. It reflects the dedication of our athletes and the relentless efforts of our coaches and support staff. We are delighted that Engil Harsharani Minz and Supriya Kujur have further earned their place in the Indian U-21 Women’s Squad for the 2026 United Kingdom Tour. Their achievement is an inspiration for every young athlete at the Centre, and we are confident they will represent India with pride on the international stage.”

The latest selections further strengthen Odisha’s reputation as a powerhouse of Indian hockey and reaffirm the High Performance Centre’s role in shaping the future of the sport by producing talented players ready to compete at the highest levels. With Engil Harsharani Minz and Supriya Kujur now set to represent India on the 2026 United Kingdom Tour, the High Performance Centre continues to demonstrate its success in developing athletes capable of excelling on the international stage.