National: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said on Saturday that we feel proud of every player, no matter which state he belongs to. The player is first and foremost an Indian and he represents the whole country. According to the official statement, Chief Minister Yogi interacted with the officials of 'Hockey India' on the eve of the '14th Hockey India Congress' at his official residence at 5 Kalidas Marg on Saturday.

Welcoming the officials of Hockey India, the Chief Minister said that it is very important for the 14th Congress of 'Hockey India' to be held in Uttar Pradesh. He said that we feel proud of every player, no matter which state he belongs to. The player is first and foremost an Indian and he represents the whole country. He expected that the officials of Hockey India will prepare the best hockey team for the country as per global standards. The best facilities will be provided to the players.

"State government ready to encourage players"
The Chief Minister said that we have to create a sense of belonging in the minds of the players. CM Yogi Adityanath said that the state government is ready to support Hockey India in the campaign to encourage players. Hockey India should work with the state's sports department on the possibilities of building stadiums for hockey in various districts. The Chief Minister said that hockey is the national game of India. That is why every Indian has an affinity towards hockey and a sense of respect for hockey players and people associated with Hockey India. 

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that Uttar Pradesh has been the most fertile ground for the Indian hockey team. Hockey magician Major Dhyanchand was born in Uttar Pradesh. He also presented ODOP (One District-One Product) to the officials of Hockey India. Minister of State for Sports and Youth Welfare (Independent Charge) Girish Chandra Yadav also addressed the program.