Bhubaneswar, December 15:Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan on Friday released a book ‘Hockey Hai Zindegi’ (Hockey Is Life) in Bhubaneswar.

Written by noted sports journalist Satyendra Pal Singh, the book represents the struggle of tribal hockey players of Odisha, mostly from Sundargarh district.

The book was released at a function orgainsed by the National Yuva Cooperative Society Limited. Hockey India captain Manpreet Singh and members from the organising team were also present at the occasion.

While speaking during the event Pradhan said that hailing from poor families, fighting against all odds, it may be Dilip Tirkey, Prabodh Tirkey, Ignace Tirkey, Dutee Chand or Srabani Nanda, all made India and Odisha proud by their outstanding performances in both National and International level.

Besides, the Union Minister gave suggestion to publish the book in English and Odia to encourage future generation.