Centre to support grassroots sports, says Union Sports Minister - The HinduPublished - May 02, 2026 07:30 pm IST - MYSURUCalling sports funding a “government responsibility, not a favour”, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya on Saturday signalled stronger institutional backing for grassroots sporting traditions at the grand finale of the 26-day Chenanda Hockey Festival in Napoklu.Addressing a large gathering at the General Thimayya Stadium, Mr. Mandaviya praised Kodagu’s unique hockey culture, noting that the Kodava community had long exemplified how sport can foster unity well before such principles gained global recognition.Published - May 02, 2026 07:30 pm ISTSign in to unlock member-only benefits!Access 10 free stories every monthSave stories to read laterAccess to comment on every storySign-up/manage your newsletter subscriptions with a single clickGet notified by email for early access to discounts & offers on our products${ ind + 1 } ${ device }Last active - ${ la }