‘Where Naxalism Once Existed, Sports Now On The Rise’: MoS Raksha Khadse At KITG 2026

Raipur turned into the focal point of India’s tribal sporting movement today as Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Khadse, arrived to witness the Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) 2026, calling the event a powerful symbol of change for the region and its young athletes. She highlighted how the competition has created an environment charged with energy, aspiration, and the promise of long-term transformation for tribal communities.

During her visit, Khadse praised the Sports Authority of India (SAI) officials and support staff for their meticulous planning and execution of the Games, noting that every aspect of the event reflected careful preparation and dedication. She underlined that the reaction from participating athletes,

residents, and people across the wider region had been exceptionally encouraging, with strong attendance and genuine enthusiasm visible at the venues.

With more than 2,500 athletes drawn from all states and Union Territories and competing in multiple sporting disciplines, Khadse said KITG 2026 showcases the Central Government’s resolve to provide tribal youth with a robust platform to shape their careers and futures through sport. She stressed that, for communities in this part of the country, the Games are not just another competition but a significant opportunity, signalling that their talent is being recognised and supported at the national level.

“There was a time when Chhattisgarh was known for Naxalism, and its people were perceived as a backward community. Today, I feel a new direction is opening up for this region. Naxalism has been eliminated, and through sport, the youth of this land can now bring their energy and potential forward and play for this nation.” Shared Hon’ble Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports

She attributed the success and vision of KITG 2026 to the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, along with Home Minister Amit Shah, who has declared Naxalism eradicated from across the country, and Cabinet Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya. Khadse also acknowledged the crucial role of the entire SAI team in turning the concept of these Games into a major initiative for tribal empowerment. Looking ahead, she expressed a strong belief that a number of competitors at KITG 2026 will progress to represent India at major international events such as the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.

Hon’ble Minister of State for Youth Affairs & Sports, Raksha Khadse, further drew attention to the wider ecosystem of programmes backing this progress, particularly the Asmita League. Launched in 2021 under the guidance of Prime Minister Modi, the Asmita League aims to bring women from rural parts of the country into structured sporting pathways, giving them both a competitive platform and a distinct identity in the field of sport.

“At KITG 2026, the results are emphatic: approximately 60 to 70% of the girls competing in hockey and football are medal-winning Asmita League alumni, including standout athlete Anjali Munda. All five gold medals won in swimming were also clinched by Asmita League athletes,” Minister Khadse said.

“Our endeavour continues to take the Asmita League further down to the grassroots village level so that the participation of women in sport only keeps growing,” she added.

In Raipur, her visit reinforced that KITG 2026 is not only a showcase of tribal sporting talent but also a reflection of sustained governmental focus on inclusion, opportunity, and structured support for youth and women in sport.