- The identity of the young generation of Chhattisgarh has been enhanced by the National Khelo India Tribal Games including Bastar-Sarguja Olympics.
- Tej Bahadur Singh Bhuwal, Assistant Public Relations Officer
There was a time when it was believed that education alone was the path to a bright future and a good job. Reflecting this thinking, it was said, “Study and write, you will become a nobleman; play and jump, you will become a scoundrel.” But today’s India has completely changed this notion.
Therefore, in today’s times, it would not be appropriate to say that education alone is the only path to success. If someone has passion, discipline, and dedication for sports, they can also realize their dreams through sports. Together, education and sports contribute to the holistic development of personality and open new doors to success in life.
Sports are not just a means to keep the body healthy; they are a school of personality development, self-confidence, discipline, and success, where future champions are prepared. Today, career opportunities in sports are limitless. Athletes who excel at the national and international levels are receiving respect, employment, financial security, and global recognition. In such times, it is essential for every youth to recognize their sporting talent and shape their future by giving it the right direction.
Every child possesses a special talent. While speed makes them excellent runners, agility can lead to success in kabaddi, hockey, football, cricket, archery, badminton, volleyball, or other sports. If talent receives timely training and opportunities, that player becomes the pride of the state and the country.
The greatest contribution of sports is that they develop important life qualities. Discipline, patience, leadership, team spirit, time management, and the courage to face challenges are learned on the playing field. These qualities lay the foundation for success in every aspect of life.
The state government has made significant efforts to revitalize sports in Chhattisgarh. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai, numerous initiatives are being taken to foster athletic talent, provide opportunities to youth from rural and tribal areas, and strengthen the sports culture. The development of modern sports infrastructure in the state, expansion of training facilities, strengthening sports academies, and organizing competitions at various levels are important steps in this direction. Additionally, Chhattisgarh has successfully hosted the National Games India Tribal Games this year.
Innovative initiatives like the Bastar Olympics and Surguja Olympics, in particular, have brought sports to every village. These events have provided a platform for the hidden sporting talents of remote forest areas and tribal regions. By promoting modern sports alongside traditional sports, thousands of youth, women, and children have had the opportunity to showcase their talent. These competitions have proven that, given the opportunity, athletes from rural and tribal areas now have the potential to reach national and international levels.
Additionally, new talents are being identified through school and college-level sports competitions, rural sports events, talent search programs, and training camps. Outstanding athletes are encouraged, recognized, and provided with various facilities to motivate them to progress.
The Chhattisgarh government offers several state-level awards to encourage athletes, including the Gundadhur Samman, the highest sports award under the Chhattisgarh State Decorations. In memory of the heroic hero Gundadhur of Bastar, this award is given to the state’s best sportsperson for outstanding performance in the field of sports. The second, named after Maharaja Pravirchand Bhanjdev, is specifically awarded for outstanding performance in the sport of archery. A sports promotion scheme has also been launched in Chhattisgarh to provide youth with opportunities to pursue sports.
Many athletes from Chhattisgarh have made their mark at the national and international levels, serving as a source of inspiration for the youth of Chhattisgarh. Currently, Gyaneshwari Yadav has brought glory to the country and the state by winning the silver medal in the women’s 53 kg weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Games 2026 (Glasgow). Amitesh Kujur also performed exceptionally well at the Commonwealth Games. Similarly, other athletes have also brought pride to Chhattisgarh by winning medals at national and international events.
Today, sports are not limited to just being an athlete. New employment and career opportunities are available for youth in various fields, such as sports coaching, fitness experts, sports management, sports science, sports journalism, and sports administration. Therefore, sports should no longer be viewed merely as a hobby, but as an effective means of building a future.
Parents and teachers also have an important responsibility to recognize children’s interests and abilities and encourage them to pursue sports. Studies and sports are complementary to each other. A healthy body and a healthy mind are the foundation for an excellent education and a successful life.
Today, when the digital world is drawing children away from the field, there is a need to inspire them back to the playing fields. Time spent on the field strengthens not only the body but also the personality, thinking, and leadership skills.
Sports teach us that behind every victory lies constant practice, discipline, and struggle. Therefore, recognize your talent, take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the government and administration, and make events like the Bastar Olympics, Surguja Olympics, national and international competitions a platform to fulfill your dreams. Today’s athlete is tomorrow’s champion, the pride of the state, and the future of the country.
