- Governor Inaugurates the 26th State-Level Sub-Junior and Cadet Judo Championship
Governor Shri Ramen Deka stated that Judo is not merely a sport but a powerful medium for developing courage, self-restraint, discipline, and self-confidence. It teaches one to face challenges with patience and balance, even in adverse circumstances. For girls, in particular, Judo serves as a vital foundation for self-defense and mental resilience. Governor Shri Deka was inaugurating the 26th State-Level Sub-Junior and Cadet Judo Championship-2026 today at the sports complex in Sarkanda. He encouraged the young male and female athletes who had arrived from various districts of the state. A total of 240 athletes and coaches from 16 districts across the state are participating in this competition, which is organized by the Bilaspur Judo Association under the aegis of the Chhattisgarh State Judo Association.
- Learning and Moving Forward is the Mark of a True Athlete
Governor Shri Deka remarked that sports teach us to respect our opponents, remain humble in victory, and move forward by learning from defeat. He urged the athletes to set ambitious goals and work hard consistently. He noted that athletes showcasing their talent at the state level today could go on to represent the country in national and international competitions, including the Asian Games and the Olympics. He emphasized that the hallmark of a true athlete is to learn from failure and move ahead rather than becoming disheartened by it.
- Athletes’ Achievements Serve as Inspiration for Other Young Talents
Highlighting the achievements of Judo athletes from Kondagaon district, the Governor mentioned that Yogita Mandavi has been honored with the ‘Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar’ (Prime Minister’s National Children’s Award) by the President for her outstanding sporting performance. He also noted that Hemvati Nag has won medals at the Khelo India National Games and Open National competitions. Meanwhile, Ranjita Koreti has brought glory to the state by winning a gold medal at the Asian Cadet Judo Championship held in Taiwan. He remarked that the achievements of these athletes serve as a source of inspiration for other young talents.
- Honoring Athletes for Outstanding Achievements in Judo
During the ceremony, Governor Shri Deka honored Hemvati Nag, Abhishek Jaiswal, Kumari Sharda Goswami, and Yogita Mandavi for their outstanding achievements in judo. Appreciating their hard work and accomplishments, he wished them a bright future.
- Expectation for Continued Efforts to Encourage Sports Talent
Governor Shri Deka stated that it is essential to identify sports talent from rural and remote areas and provide them with better training, facilities, and opportunities. He expressed the expectation that the Chhattisgarh State Judo Association would continue its efforts to encourage sports talent. He extended his best wishes to all participants, urging them to perform excellently while upholding the spirit of sportsmanship and discipline.
The event was attended by Bilaspur Collector Shri Sanjay Agrawal, Chhattisgarh State Judo Association President Shri Arun Dwivedi, General Secretary Shri Shambhu Soni, and Bilaspur District Judo Association President Shri Shailendra Shukla, along with office-bearers of the sports association, coaches, and a large number of athletes.