- Minister hails 2,500+ tribal athletes as future Olympians
- Says region once hit by Naxalism now witnessing sporting transformation
- Asmita League athletes dominate medals in hockey, football, swimming
- KITG reflects Centre’s push to empower tribal youth through sports
Raipur, : Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse on Wednesday said that regions once affected by conflict are now witnessing a new wave of hope through sports, as she visited the ongoing Khelo India Tribal Games 2026.
Describing the atmosphere at the Games as one of “energy, hope and transformation,” Khadse commended the efforts of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and local organisers for successfully hosting the event. She noted that the participation of over 2,500 athletes from across states and Union Territories reflects the growing reach of sports among tribal youth.
“For the people of this region, these Games are a symbol of new hope. Their potential is now being recognised and nurtured at the highest level,” she said.
Minister said areas once associated with Naxalism are now emerging as centres of sporting excellence. “There was a time when this region was defined by conflict. Today, a new direction is visible. Through sports, the youth are bringing forward their talent and contributing to the nation,” she said.
Khadse credited the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya for promoting initiatives like the Khelo India Tribal Games, which aim to provide a national platform to tribal athletes.
She expressed confidence that several participants from the current edition will go on to represent India at international events such as the Olympics, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games.
The Minister also highlighted the impact of the Asmita League, launched in 2021 to promote women’s participation in sports, particularly in rural areas. She said the initiative has already begun to show results at the ongoing Games.
“Nearly 60 to 70 per cent of girls competing in hockey and football here are medal-winning Asmita League alumni, including standout athlete Anjali Munda. Notably, all five gold medals in swimming have also been won by athletes associated with the programme,” Khadse said.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding the Asmita League further at the grassroots level to ensure greater participation of women in sports. “Our effort is to take this initiative down to the village level so that more young girls can find identity and opportunity through sports,” she added.
The Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, being held in Chhattisgarh, has emerged as a significant platform for identifying and nurturing talent from tribal communities, signalling a shift in the region’s narrative from conflict to opportunity and growth.
