Raipur

Ramesh Tawadkar, Goa’s Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, on Thursday lauded the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games being held in Chhattisgarh, highlighting the exceptional and often untapped talent present in tribal communities across the country.

Describing the event as a stepping stone for India’s future Olympic ambitions, Tawadkar said the initiative provides a vital platform to recognise and nurture indigenous sporting abilities. He noted that the Games have brought together participants from various states, including Goa, and showcase the rich diversity of talent found in tribal regions.

According to him, programmes like Khelo India, launched under the leadership of Narendra Modi, aim to systematically develop grassroots talent and prepare athletes for international competitions, including the Olympics.

Commenting on remarks made by Rahul Gandhi, Tawadkar criticised the Congress leader, saying his statements reflect poorly on the party, which he claimed has seen a decline despite its historical role in nation-building after independence.

Earlier, Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the first edition of the Games, which are being organised across multiple cities in Chhattisgarh and will continue until April 3. He described the event as a landmark initiative, with the state set to host it regularly in regions such as Bastar, Sarguja, and Raipur.

Mandaviya emphasised that sporting excellence is not limited to urban areas, pointing out that significant talent exists in tribal, coastal, and remote regions. The Games, he said, are designed to identify and promote this potential through structured training and development pathways.

He added that sports play a crucial role beyond competition, helping instil discipline, resilience, and life skills, in line with the government’s broader vision of strengthening India’s sporting culture.

The minister also noted that coaches from the Sports Authority of India will scout promising athletes during the event and guide them through advanced training programmes at Khelo India Centres and Centres of Excellence.

Highlighting the contribution of tribal athletes, he referred to icons like Deepika Kumari as examples of excellence emerging from such communities.

Mandaviya further said that the Games are expected to boost tourism and regional development, while also promoting inclusivity and transparency through reforms like the proposed Sports Governance Bill and the upcoming Khelo Bharat policy.

READ MORE: Pilot Hana Mohsin Khan defies social and religious stereotypes

Reaffirming India’s ambitions on the global stage, he expressed confidence in improved performances at major events such as the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games, while reiterating the country’s goal of hosting the Olympics in 2036 and becoming one of the world’s top sporting nations by 2047.