Chhattisgarh to Host 'Khelo India Tribal Games': A New Era for Sports and Healthcare

Chhattisgarh's Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai engaged in talks with Union Minister Mansukh Mandaviya in New Delhi to strategically advance sports and healthcare education within the state. During their meeting, Sai and Mandaviya agreed to transition the Bastar Olympics into the 'Khelo India Tribal Games', a significant move to bring national visibility to tribal athletes and highlight Chhattisgarh's traditional sports culture globally.

Chief Minister Sai proposed establishing 220-bed medical and nursing colleges in Raipur and Bilaspur to improve health education quality and expand healthcare access across Chhattisgarh. Minister Mandaviya assured prompt central government action to grant approvals. The CM also advocated for a regional centre of the Lakshmibai National Institute of Physical Education in Chhattisgarh, along with new stadiums and training centres to enhance the state's sports infrastructure. Mandaviya pledged expedited approvals for these initiatives.

The discussions were attended by Principal Secretary Subodh Singh and Secretary Rahul Bhagat. Earlier accolades came for Chhattisgarh at a Chief Minister's conclave led by PM Narendra Modi. Notably, initiatives like the Bastar Olympics and Bastar Pandum realize PM Modi's 'Kheloge India, Jeetoge India' vision by turning grassroots enthusiasm into a cultural movement that has significantly involved 1.65 lakh athletes in traditional games, fostering community spirit and inclusion.

(With inputs from agencies.)