India launches first tribal games under Khelo India, spotlight on grassroots talent

The first edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) began in Chhattisgarh on Wednesday, bringing tribal athletes from across the country onto a national sporting stage.

The 10 day event, which will conclude on April 3 , has drawn around 3,800 athletes from 30 states , competing in nine disciplines. The competitions include archery, athletics, football, hockey, swimming, weightlifting and wrestling, while mallakhamb and kabaddi are being showcased as demonstration sports.

Speaking at the opening ceremony at Science College Ground in Raipur , Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya described the initiative as a major step toward recognising and nurturing tribal sporting talent. He said the event marks not just the beginning of a tournament but the start of a wider movement that will bring tribal athletes from across the country together every year.

Mandaviya said sports represent more than medals, describing them as a way of life that promotes balance, resilience and the spirit of learning. With nearly 65 per cent of India’s population below the age of 35 , he said the country has enormous potential to strengthen its sporting culture.

Highlighting government initiatives such as Khelo India and Fit India , the minister said efforts are being made to promote sports participation and identify talent from villages, tribal regions and other remote areas.

Competitions in the Tribal Games are being held in Raipur, Jagdalpur and Surguja . Hockey and football matches are taking place in Raipur, athletics events in Jagdalpur and wrestling competitions in Surguja.

A total of 106 gold medals are at stake in the tournament. Athletics offers the highest number with 34 medals , followed by swimming with 24 , wrestling with 18 , weightlifting with 16 and archery with 10 .

Officials from the Sports Authority of India are observing the event to identify promising athletes. Selected players will be trained at Khelo India centres and centres of excellence , with the government supporting their preparation for national and international competitions.

The opening ceremony was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai , Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao , who also holds the sports portfolio, and other officials.