- Chhattisgarh Government Committed to Sports Development: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai
- Indian cricket star Suryakumar Yadav praised the efforts of forest conservation in Chhattisgarh
The All India Forest Sports Competition kicked off at Swami Vivekananda Athletic Stadium in Raipur with a vibrant march past featuring players from various states dressed in traditional attire. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai welcomed the participants and commended the Forest Department’s efforts in organizing the event.
Union Forest Minister Bhupendra Yadav, delivering a virtual message, emphasized the vital role of forest workers in conservation efforts and the importance of physical fitness for their duties. He encouraged all players to exhibit sportsmanship and give their best performances.
Highlighting the competition’s rich history, CM Sai noted that it began in 1992 and has grown in popularity, attracting participants from Kashmir to Kanyakumari, as well as Union Territories. He acknowledged Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s initiatives for sports development and reaffirmed the Chhattisgarh government’s commitment to supporting athletes.
Bihar Forest Minister Dr Prem Kumar stressed the need for greater awareness and conservation of forests and wildlife. He praised Chhattisgarh for hosting this year’s event, which showcases the state’s natural wealth.
Chhattisgarh Forest and Climate Change Minister Kedar Kashyap announced that the state secured first place in the last competition held in Haryana. He emphasized the significance of the five-day event in promoting forest conservation and urged everyone to take responsibility for environmental awareness.
Indian T-20 captain Suryakumar Yadav also addressed the gathering, commending Chhattisgarh’s conservation efforts and highlighting the importance of discipline in sports.
This year’s competition, hosted by Chhattisgarh for the third time, will feature events in 300 disciplines across 26 sports, running from 16 to 20 October. Over 2,920 players, including 2,331 men and 585 women, are participating. The Chhattisgarh team with 268 players, aims to win the overall championship for the 12th time, having previously held the title 11 times.
During the march past, Chhattisgarh secured first place, followed by Himachal Pradesh and Assam, which received consolation prizes.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Ministers Arun Sao and Vijay Sharma, along with several ministers, senior officials, and a large number of spectators.