Jagdalpur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Thursday inaugurated the divisional-level Bastar Olympics 2025 at the Indira Priyadarshini Stadium, marking a powerful display of unity, sportsmanship, and growing youth participation from the tribal heartland of Chhattisgarh.
Addressing thousands of athletes and spectators, the Chief Minister said, “Your Chief Minister is one of you, your brother. Move forward with confidence—the government stands with you at every step.”
Grand Opening Ceremony Unfolds in Jagdalpur
The opening ceremony witnessed an impressive march past by players from all seven districts of Bastar—Bijapur, Dantewada, Kanker, Kondagaon, Narayanpur, Bastar—and Nuwabat. Their synchronized parade drew loud applause from the spectators, reflecting overwhelming enthusiasm for the mega sporting event.
The event began with the lighting of the ceremonial torch, followed by a colorful fireworks display and elaborate cultural performances by students from Mata Rukmani Kanya Ashram and various local schools.
“Bastar Moving Towards Peace and Prosperity” — CM Sai
In his address, CM Vishnu Deo Sai highlighted the region’s transformation:
- He said that government efforts are ensuring that development reaches every village of Bastar.
- Bastar, he noted, is steadily moving towards peace, harmony, and prosperity.
The CM added that the record participation of girls and women athletes shows a new and strong movement of women’s empowerment emerging in the region.
The Chief Minister reaffirmed his commitment to bringing the youth of Bastar into the mainstream and making them active partners in the region’s development journey.
Record Participation: Over 3.92 Lakh Registrations, 2.27 Lakh Women Athletes
Director of Sports and Youth Welfare Tanuja Salam announced that:
- 3,500 athletes are participating at the divisional level.
- Total registrations for the 2025 Bastar Olympics have soared to 3,92,000, a massive jump from 1,65,000 last year.
More than 2,27,000 women participants have signed up—an unprecedented surge showcasing shifting social dynamics in Bastar.
International-Level Incentives Announced for Athletes
CM Sai announced major incentives for athletes who excel at global events:
- ₹3 crore for Olympic gold medalists
- ₹2 crore for silver medalists
- ₹1 crore for bronze medalists
He said the state government will ensure better training facilities and opportunities to help Bastar’s athletes compete on international platforms.
Arun Sao, Vijay Sharma: “Sports Connecting Youth to Development”
Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao said that the Bastar Olympics is not merely a sports event but a bridge to connect youth to mainstream development. He assured that sports infrastructure in Bastar will be further strengthened.
Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma echoed similar sentiments, stating that the government is determined to provide more opportunities to youth in remote regions of the division.
Mary Kom Joins as Guest of Honour
Padma Shri awardee and Olympic bronze medalist Mary Kom graced the occasion, inspiring thousands of young athletes with her presence. Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap, MLAs, senior officers, national players Kiran Pisda and Khushboo Nag were also present.
Torch Relay Sparks Emotional Moments
The most inspiring moment of the event came during the torch relay:
- The torch was carried by Vijay Dodi, a Kabaddi player from Purvarti (Sukma district), and Saloni Kawachi, a Kho-Kho player from Orchha (Narayanpur district).
- Their energetic lap around the stadium generated thunderous applause, especially because both athletes hail from remote, formerly insurgency-affected regions.
Spectators described the torch relay as a “historic and emotional moment,” symbolic of Bastar’s shifting identity—from conflict to confidence.
Bastar Olympics Emerges as a Major Platform for Tribal Talent
The Bastar Olympics, now being held at three competitive levels, has quickly grown into the biggest sporting event in the region, giving tribal youth a platform to showcase their talent and gain statewide, national, and even international exposure.
Officials say the event is also helping foster social cohesion, youth engagement, and community pride, reinforcing Bastar’s emergence as a vibrant sporting hub.
