Team News Riveting
Raipur, April 01
Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports, Ms Raksha Nikhil Khadse, paid a courtesy visit to Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai at his residence office today.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai extended a warm welcome to Ms Khadse by presenting her with a shawl, an exquisite artefact crafted from Bastar art, and a coffee table book based on the renowned Bastar Dussehra.
During the interaction, Chief Minister Sai observed that Chhattisgarh is endowed with abundant talent, and the need of the hour is to provide adequate opportunities, resources, and robust platforms to enable these abilities to flourish. He noted that the State Government is consistently working to nurture talent through sports and cultural initiatives, ensuring their progression to the national stage.
Referring to the recently held Bastar and Surguja Olympics, Chief Minister Sai stated that these events have imparted a distinct identity to the state. They have brought numerous hidden talents to the fore, instilling confidence among participants. The government, he added, is committed to further refining these skills through enhanced training and necessary infrastructural support.
Describing the hosting of “Khelo India Tribal Games 2026” as a matter of pride for the state, Sai said that the event would infuse fresh energy among the youth of tribal regions. He further remarked that with Bastar increasingly integrating into the mainstream and the restoration of peace in the region, youth participation in sports is poised to witness a significant rise in the coming years.
Highlighting the significance of ‘Bastar Pandum’, Chief Minister Sai said that the event stands as a powerful testament to the state’s rich cultural and sporting heritage. It witnessed participation from nearly 54,000 individuals across 12 disciplines, encompassing traditional sports, music, dance, attire, and cuisine.
It is noteworthy that Union Minister of State Khadse is on a visit to Chhattisgarh to attend the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026. She has described this event, being held in Jagdalpur, as a historic initiative towards tribal empowerment, grassroots talent identification, and nation-building through sports. MLA Purandar Mishra, Deputy Director General of the Sports Authority of India Mayank Srivastava, and Secretary, Sports Department, Yashwant Kumar, were also present on the occasion.
