The inaugural edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) 2026 got underway on Wednesday across three cities in Chhattisgarh and will continue until April 3, marking a significant step in India’s efforts to promote sports at the grassroots level.
The Games are being held across key regions, Bastar, Sarguja and Raipur, with the state set to host the event on a permanent basis. Addressing the opening ceremony, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya described the initiative as a “historic beginning” for the state.
Highlighting the importance of identifying talent beyond urban centres, Mandaviya emphasised that sporting potential thrives in tribal and remote regions as much as in metropolitan cities.
“Sporting talent is not limited to metropolitan cities; it thrives in tribal villages and across diverse regions of the country. The introduction of the Khelo India Tribal Games aims to identify and promote this untapped potential,” he said.
The minister stressed that sports go beyond medals, playing a crucial role in instilling discipline, balance and life skills among youth. He noted that this aligns with the broader vision of Narendra Modi to build a strong sporting culture in the country.
He further added that coaches from the Sports Authority of India (SAI) will be present at the Games to scout emerging talent and provide structured training pathways for athletes to excel at national and international levels.
Referring to icons such as Deepika Kumari, Mandaviya highlighted the significant contribution of tribal communities to India’s sporting legacy. He noted that the initiative will not only promote sports but also boost tourism and regional development, drawing attention from across the country and beyond.
On governance, the minister underscored the importance of transparency and inclusivity, pointing to reforms such as the proposed Sports Governance Bill and the upcoming Khelo Bharat Niti. These measures aim to ensure fair selection processes, expand opportunities for women and tribal athletes, and prioritise performance.
Expressing confidence in India’s future on the global stage, Mandaviya said the country is poised to deliver its best-ever performance at upcoming events such as the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. He added that initiatives like Khelo India and Fit India have played a key role in expanding participation and strengthening the sports ecosystem over the past decade.
Reiterating India’s long-term ambitions, the minister said the country aims to host the Olympic Games in 2036 and break into the top 10 sporting nations globally, with a vision of reaching the top five by 2047.