Naveen Patnaik impact made me join politics: Dilip Tirkey

Thursday, June 07, 2012

Former captain of Indian Hockey team, four time Olympian and 412 international match old Dilip Tirkey known for his stick skill throughout the world as a renowned defender has started his political career by getting elected to Rajya Sabha nominated by the ruling Biju Janata Dal.

Padmashree Tirkey who impressed one and all with his maiden speech in the Upper House is being watched closely how he uses his skill to defend his political mentor, Naveen Patnaik in the ongoing crisis.

Question: Did you plan to join politics before offer came from BJD to file nomination for Rajya Sabha?
DT: Earlier also, political parties had contacted me with offer of seats for parliamentary elections. At that time I was not prepared due to personal reasons. After I left playing international hockey, I wanted to work for promotion & popularization of sports, development of youth & tribal people. The offers of political parties excited me in this regard, where my natural choice was BJD.

Question: What are your first thoughts on performance of BJD Government and CM Naveen Patnaik?

DT: The leadership of CM Naveen Patnaik and his style of functioning had a great impact on me. Before entering the political field, i had the privilege to interact with him on various occasions. His love for the development of the people is immense. Under his dynamic leadership, the state has achieved important milestones in various areas. The overall progress during the BJD govt in the state has caught world-wide attention. Now we can take proud with our Odia identity.

Question: You are the youngest MP in Rajya Sabha. How are you planning to represent the issues of the youth in the Parliament?

DT: As I have already said, the issues concerning sports, youth & tribal people are dear to my heart. It will be my core focus area in Rajya Sabha. Of course, other important issues affecting the life of the people of our state will always remain uppermost in my mind.

Question: Your distinguished record as sports person has earned you support of the BJD. What does Mr. Naveen Patnaik expect from you in the Parliament?

DT: The CM has been very kind by allowing me to follow my passion for development of sports, youth & tribal people. Like a disciplined player in the field, I look forward to live up to his expectations.

Question: What is your plan for the development of Tribals in Odisha?

DT: For me development of tribal people requires a two pronged strategy. In one hand we have to create a level playing field for their progress while in the other we have to be sensitive to their needs & aspirations. We can create level playing field for tribal youths by establishing schools & colleges, fulfilling their training needs etc in order to compete with others. For this they need the support to excel in examinations, job interviews etc. In the recently concluded parliamentary session, I had strongly argued for inclusion of 137 tribal groups from Odisha in the national Scheduled Tribe List, which is pending since 1978. This will help them a lot.

Secondly, we need to create jobs in their local area by using the locally available resources. This will not only protect their habitations but also have a lasting social & cultural bond.

Question: Along with sports, tribal issues any other specific issues that you will be seen focusing on?

DT: Educational initiatives & economic developmental aspects of youths is a major area of concern for me.

Question: You have indicated that you will be working towards social and communal harmony in tribal areas. What are your thoughts and ideas to engage with communities to prevent events like Kandhamaal?

DT: Education, adequate knowledge & economic prosperity can bring happiness all around. Once this happens most of the social issues will disappear.

Question: What do you think can be done to deal with the Maoists?
DT: There are certain misguided youths taking law into their own hands to bring revolutionary changes in the society. I think these brothers & sisters should join the mainstream and fight for their rights within the premises of the law of the land.

Question: You had started a project to groom hockey talents in Odisha. Will that take a backseat as you joined politics?

DT: No, not at all. Sports in general, hockey in particular will always remain my first love. I will find time for the same.

Question: Despite budding talents in the country, investment in promoting Hockey has been negligible. What needs to be done to resurrect Hockey?

DT: Planners & Managers should reprioritize their intentions and allocate enough time & resources for the development of hockey. Personal egos need to be sacrificed for the rejuvenation of our national game.

Question: Where do you see the future of Hockey in India?

DT: Future is bright provided we have the desire to excel. We must take this on a mission mode.

Question: Why do you think Hockey in India has suffered despite being the national game of the country?

DT: It is not entirely true. Like every other activity, sports also go through a cycle of ups & down. A wining combination is one that wins the day. I feel that there is immense potential among our players. They have to only see their purpose & translate this into reality. It requires dedication, discipline & a big dream. Everybody associated with the game should realize the writings in the wall & act accordingly.