The Odisha government became the sponsor of the Indian hockey team about a decade ago when Naveen was the chief minister. “Inspired by the Indian national flag and the rising sun, it reflects new beginnings,” HI stated. While voicing concern over the change, Naveen said, “The iconic shade of blue of the Indian hockey team is not just a colour. The BJD supremo recalled that when the national hockey teams were struggling for sponsors, Odisha created history by being the first and only state to support the national teams and the beloved game. Highlighting the blue jersey, he said, “Our blue jersey is to us what the iconic stripes are to Argentina, and the yellow jersey is to Brazil.