Khelo India Tribal Games Provide Historic Platform for Tribal Talent: CM Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur, April 2026: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that the Khelo India Tribal Games have emerged as a historic and memorable platform for showcasing tribal talent. Addressing the closing ceremony of Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 at Pandit Deendayal Auditorium in Raipur, he noted that the enthusiasm and energy witnessed over the past ten days in Chhattisgarh have captured the attention of the entire nation.

He said the event has provided a unique opportunity for tribal athletes to display their sporting abilities on a national stage. Expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chief Minister said that it was due to his vision and guidance that Chhattisgarh got the honour of hosting the first-ever Khelo India Tribal Games. He also appreciated Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya for his continuous support, adding that the state has now secured a prominent place on India’s sports map. He announced that the Games will now be held annually in Chhattisgarh.

Highlighting the deep-rooted connection between tribal communities and sports, Sai said that activities like archery, running, and wrestling have long been integral to tribal life. Referring to his own tribal background, he said immense talent exists within these communities, which can achieve global recognition if given the right platform. He described the event as not just a sports competition but a grand confluence of unity, culture, and skill, with participation from athletes representing 30 states and Union Territories.

The Chief Minister congratulated the top-performing states—Karnataka, Odisha, and Jharkhand—for securing the first, second, and third positions respectively. He also expressed pride in Chhattisgarh’s performance, which earned a total of 19 medals, including 3 gold, 10 silver, and 6 bronze. He highlighted achievements such as Anushka Bhagat winning four silver medals in swimming, Siddharth Nagesh securing gold and silver in athletics, and Nikita winning gold in weightlifting. The girls’ football team clinched gold, while the boys’ hockey team secured bronze.

Sai also announced cash rewards for medal winners. In individual events, gold medalists will receive Rs 2 lakh, silver Rs 1.5 lakh, and bronze Rs 1 lakh. In team events, gold winners will get Rs 1 lakh, silver Rs 75,000, and bronze Rs 50,000.

Deputy Chief Minister Arun Saw described the Games as a gateway of new opportunities for tribal athletes, while Chief Secretary Vikas Sheel said the participation of over 2,000 athletes and officials made it a significant national-level event.

International boxer Mary Kom and footballer Bhaichung Bhutia attended the event as special guests, adding prestige to the successful scheme.