New Delhi, March 25: Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, addressed the inaugural edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, marking a historic milestone for Indian sports development.
The Games, being held across three cities in Chhattisgarh, will continue until April 3, with Bastar, Sarguja, and Raipur set to become permanent hosts for this annual event.
Focus on Tribal Talent Across India
Dr. Mandaviya emphasised that sporting excellence is not limited to metropolitan cities but thrives in tribal villages and remote regions across the country.
“Sporting talent is not limited to metropolitan cities; it thrives in tribal villages and across diverse regions of the country,” he stated, highlighting the importance of identifying untapped potential through the Khelo India Tribal Games.
SAI Coaches to Scout Emerging Athletes
The Minister announced that SAI coaches will be present at the venues to scout talent and guide athletes through structured pathways such as Khelo India Centres and Centres of Excellence.
These initiatives aim to provide advanced training and prepare athletes for national and international competitions.
Transparency and Performance as Priorities
Dr. Mandaviya stressed that performance will remain the top priority, with selection processes being fair, transparent, and closely monitored.
He also highlighted upcoming reforms such as the Sports Governance Bill and Khelo Bharat Niti, aimed at ensuring inclusivity and equal opportunities for women and tribal athletes.
Boost to Sports, Tourism, and Development
The Minister noted that the Khelo India Tribal Games will not only promote sports but also boost tourism and regional development, attracting attention from across India and globally.
He cited athletes like Olympian Deepika Kumari as examples of the strong sporting legacy within tribal communities.
India’s Sporting Vision for the Future
Expressing confidence in India’s progress, Dr. Mandaviya stated that the country is set to deliver its best-ever performance at the Asian Games.
He reiterated India’s long-term vision to host the Olympic Games in 2036 and achieve a top 10 global sporting rank, aiming to be among the top five sporting nations by 2047.
Initiatives like Fit India and Khelo India continue to play a key role in expanding grassroots participation and nurturing talent across the nation.