Dilip Tirkey

When did you conceive the idea of this tournament?

Talks started six-seven months ago. We organised a rural hockey event in 2012-13 with 782 teams.

Any plan to make it an all-India tournament?

No, but seeing the enthusiasm at the opening ceremony in Rourkela I think it would help rural hockey develop.

How difficult was to bring 1,458 teams together?

It was difficult as players are from poor backgrounds. Also, log­­is­­tics are a nightmare.

Your tournament slogan, ‘pick up hockey stick, not guns’, might annoy the Naxals.

This crusade is difficult in many areas in the east. We are taking this up slowly.

From the first Olympic gold-winning captain, Jaipal Singh, many tribals have represented India. Now only Birendra Lakra is in the team.

We’ll have to create a craze for hockey in these areas by creating hostels, academies and coaches.

How has your stint in Rajya Sabha been?

I’ve raised issues pertaining to facilities athletes sho­­­­uld get and demanded Bha­­rat Ratna for Dhyan Chand.

Can hockey become India’s most popular sport?

It’s very popular in the east. Our aim is to make people go and play hockey.

What changes in rules would you suggest?

Tournaments should be organised in the areas where people love and play hockey, which would bring in promoters and sponsors.

When do you see India winning the next Olympic hockey gold?

Obviously, as early as possible. There have been difficulties, but I wish we win medals in top tournaments.

Are you happy with the money hockey players get?

If you increase financial support to players and prize money for rural hockey it will be a great motivator.