- Chhattisgarh Hockey League will serve as a powerful medium to provide new recognition to the state’s sporting talent at the national and international levels: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai
- ‘Mukhyamantri Khel Utkarsh Mission’ (Chief Minister’s Sports Excellence Mission) will provide opportunities for talent from villages and tribal regions to progress
- Chief Minister Shri Sai and Union Minister Dr. Mandaviya attended the closing and prize distribution ceremony of the Chhattisgarh Hockey League
- A major platform provided for sporting talent—from Bastar to Surguja—to showcase their capabilities
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attended the closing and prize distribution ceremony of the Chhattisgarh Hockey League, held today at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in the capital, Raipur. On this occasion, Chief Minister Shri Sai congratulated the winning and runner-up teams, as well as the players who delivered outstanding performances throughout the tournament. He stated that the Chhattisgarh Hockey League is a significant initiative aimed at fostering sporting talent within the state. The event provided players from various regions of the state with an opportunity to showcase their skills and learn from experienced players at the national and international levels.
Chief Minister Shri Sai remarked that there is no shortage of sporting talent in Chhattisgarh. Our villages, tribal regions, and remote areas are home to immense athletic potential. What is needed is to provide these individuals with proper opportunities, modern training, and better sports facilities. With this objective in mind, the state government is continuously working toward expanding sports infrastructure and encouraging talented athletes.
The Chief Minister noted that the Chhattisgarh Hockey League has done a commendable job of uniting different regions of the state through the medium of sports. Six teams—Rajdhani Royals, Nyaydhani Knights, Sanskardhani Strikers, Chakradhar Champions, Bailadila Bulls, and Mainpat Titans—participated in the tournament. The involvement of these six teams transformed the event into a state-wide sports festival for all of Chhattisgarh. Players from regions spanning Bastar to Sarguja and Raigarh to Rajnandgaon were given the opportunity to compete against one another, share their experiences, and hone their sporting skills.
Chief Minister Mr. Sai noted that a key feature of this league was the inclusion of an Olympian in every team. This allowed the state’s young athletes to share the field with experienced players who have competed at the international level and to learn the finer nuances of the sport. Such events play a vital role in boosting the self-confidence of young players while preparing them for major future competitions.
He remarked that the Chhattisgarh Hockey League’s motto—‘Chalav Re Sangi, Hockey Khelbo’ (Come along, friends, let’s play hockey)—has emerged as an inspiring call, drawing the state’s youth toward the sports field. Another notable aspect of the event was the broadcast of the matches on JioHotstar, which provided a platform for the talent of Chhattisgarh’s players to reach a wider audience. The inclusion of commentary in the Chhattisgarhi language, alongside Hindi, added a personal touch and fostered a deeper connection to local culture; the excitement of hockey was complemented by the sweetness of the Chhattisgarhi language.
Chief Minister Mr. Sai stated that the state government is committed to identifying sporting talent, encouraging athletes, and providing them with superior training. In this pursuit, the ‘Mukhyamantri Khel Utkarsh Mission’ (Chief Minister’s Sports Excellence Mission) has been launched. Through this mission, the government aims to identify hidden sporting talent in villages and remote areas and connect them with training centers. The government’s objective is to ensure that no talented athlete’s dreams remain unfulfilled due to a lack of resources.
The Chief Minister expressed his confidence that, in the coming years, the Chhattisgarh Hockey League will help unearth talent that will go on to wear the Indian national hockey team jersey and win medals for the country in international competitions. Mr. Sai congratulated the organizers, the players from all six teams, the coaches, and everyone else involved in the event for the successful execution of the Chhattisgarh Hockey League. He stated that such competitions play a significant role in strengthening a positive sports culture within the state and engaging the youth in a spirit of healthy competition.
Union Minister Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya remarked that the organization of the Chhattisgarh Hockey League serves as a role model for the entire country. When a government possesses strong determination, such successful events become possible. Initiatives like these not only foster the development of sports but also help cultivate talented athletes—a crucial element for the advancement of sports. He noted that hockey is a source of national pride and has long been an integral part of India’s rich sporting heritage. The legendary Major Dhyan Chand, often called the ‘magician’ of hockey, brought global renown to India through his extraordinary skill. His achievements continue to inspire young athletes across the nation to strive for excellence.
Dr. Mandaviya highlighted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, a new environment for sports has emerged in the country. Campaigns such as ‘Khelo India’ and ‘Fit India’ have heightened interest and awareness regarding sports among the youth. Today, young Indians no longer view sports merely as a form of entertainment or a means to physical fitness; rather, they see them as a vital opportunity to showcase their talent and build a bright future.
Dr. Mandaviya expressed his confidence that…In the coming years, the Chhattisgarh Hockey League will become even more expansive and competitive. This league will serve as a robust platform for advancement, not only for players from the state but for athletes from across the country. Undoubtedly, this will also help establish a new identity for Chhattisgarh on the national sports map.
The closing ceremony was attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Shri Arun Sao and Shri Vijay Sharma, Minister for Skill Development Guru Khushwant Saheb, Member of Parliament Shri Brijmohan Agrawal, and the ambassador of the Chhattisgarh Hockey League, Shri Sardar Singh.