Ambikapur: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated the Sarguja Olympics 2026 at the PG College Ground in Ambikapur. The event marks a major milestone in promoting sports and youth participation across the region. CM Sai announced that both Sarguja and Bastar Olympics will now be held annually, with a combined budget allocation of ₹10 crore.
The Olympics will run over multiple days, featuring athletes from Sarguja, Surajpur, Korea, Balrampur, Jashpur, and MCB districts. Wrestler Geeta Phogat and Sarguja MP Chintamani Maharaj were also present, along with a large gathering of local residents.
CM Sai Highlights Significance of Sarguja Olympics
Addressing the participants, CM Sai extended greetings on Navratri and emphasized the importance of the event in promoting regional sports talent. He recalled that Bastar had hosted the Olympics for the past two years, but Sarguja lacked such an event, which led to public disappointment.
CM Sai noted that in the inaugural Bastar Olympics, 1.65 lakh players registered, including around 700 former Naxals who joined the mainstream through the sporting initiative. The Sarguja Olympics aims to encourage similar participation and foster unity in the region.
Participation and Incentives for Athletes
The Chief Minister announced that over 2,000 athletes are participating in Sarguja Olympics 2026. The government has allocated more than ₹10 crore for Bastar and Sarguja Olympics this year. Key incentives include:
- ₹21 lakh reward for all participants from Chhattisgarh
- ₹3 crore prize for gold medal winners
CM Sai stressed that such initiatives will encourage youth to recognize their talent, build confidence, and pursue their dreams.
Promoting Youth, Sports, and Discipline
CM Sai said that regional Olympics provide a strong platform to nurture athletic talent, instill discipline, and strengthen confidence among youth. The presence of Geeta Phogat is expected to inspire young athletes to achieve excellence.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting sports development and youth empowerment, calling it a cornerstone of building a “New Chhattisgarh.”
Additional Announcements
During the event, CM Sai also mentioned the passage of the Religious Freedom Bill, which enforces strict measures against forced religious conversions. He highlighted reforms to address examination irregularities in PSC and other government exams, ensuring accountability and stringent penalties for malpractice.
Event Duration
The Sarguja Olympics 2026 will continue from 21 to 23 March, featuring divisional-level competitions that showcase the state’s sports talent while promoting participation, health, and discipline among youth.
Read also: Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai Signs MoU for Jal Jeevan Mission 2.0 to Strengthen Rural Water Supply
