Deputy CM Arun Sao calls it a “game-changer” as 3,800 athletes from across India gear up for competitions in Raipur, Jagdalpur, and Surguja
Published on: March 24, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Raipur, India
Chhattisgarh is set to host the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games from March 25, an event being hailed as a landmark moment for the state’s sporting landscape. Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Arun Sao described the tournament as a “milestone” that will significantly boost the state’s sports ecosystem and provide a powerful platform for tribal athletes.
Addressing a press conference on Tuesday, Sao said the state has previously organized regional events such as the Surguja Olympics and Bastar Olympics, but hosting a national-level event like the Khelo India Tribal Games marks a major leap forward. “This is a historic and memorable occasion for Chhattisgarh. It will strengthen our sports talent pool and infrastructure while offering invaluable experience in hosting national competitions,” he said.
The multi-sport event will witness participation from around 3,800 athletes representing 30 states and Union Territories, competing across nine disciplines. Medal events will be held in archery, athletics, football, hockey, swimming, weightlifting, and wrestling, while Mallakhamb and kabaddi will feature as demonstration sports. A total of 106 gold medals will be up for grabs, with athletics offering the highest number at 34.
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Competitions will be आयोजित across three venues—Raipur, Jagdalpur, and Surguja—continuing until April 3. Hockey and football matches will take place in Raipur, athletics events in Jagdalpur, and wrestling competitions in Surguja.
Prominent Indian athletes have also lauded the initiative, emphasizing its role in nurturing grassroots talent. Hockey Olympians Dilip Tirkey and Salima Tete, along with national sprint star Animesh Kujur, described the Games as a significant opportunity for tribal youth to pursue careers in sports.
Tirkey, President of Hockey India, highlighted the pride associated with launching such a championship for the first time in the country. “This is a great platform for young tribal athletes to showcase their talent and progress in their sporting careers. It aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of transforming India into a global sporting nation,” he said.
Animesh Kujur echoed similar sentiments, noting that many regions in India still lack access to structured sporting opportunities. “Bringing tribal youth from across the country onto a single platform is a commendable step that can transform lives,” he added.
The host states—Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Assam—will collectively field over 100 athletes. The Games will also maintain near-equal participation of male and female athletes, reflecting the Olympic Charter’s commitment to gender equality.
Players have been selected through national-level trials conducted by respective sports federations, while coaches appointed by the Sports Authority of India will monitor performances closely.
Officials believe that the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games will not only inspire a new generation of athletes from tribal communities but also accelerate India’s journey toward becoming a strong sporting nation.
