TFP Bureau, Raipur, November 13, 2024: The ongoing Bastar Olympics, a special initiative by Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, is generating immense enthusiasm in the tribal-dominated regions of Bastar division, including the remote Abujhmad area. From children to the elderly, residents are actively participating in various traditional sports, with the event serving as a platform to nurture local talent and connect communities through sports.
The Bastar Olympics, featuring events such as kho-kho, kabaddi, volleyball, high jump, and archery, aims to enhance the athletic abilities of young players from rural areas. The event has been designed to celebrate traditional games that have always been a part of rural life. Participants are particularly excited about the inclusion of games that evoke nostalgia, bringing back fond memories of childhood for many, especially the elderly.
Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, in his appeal to the people of Bastar, encouraged maximum participation, emphasizing the state’s commitment to boosting sports infrastructure in the region. As part of the event, block-level competitions are taking place from November 6 to 16, followed by district and division-level contests, culminating in a grand finale.
Revitalizing Rural Sports and Culture
The Bastar Olympics are fostering a sense of community pride, with mascots like the wild buffalo and hill myna captivating both the youth and the general public. For villagers like Jaisingh and Rajnu Yadav from Boravand village, the event represents an invaluable opportunity to showcase their skills. Their kabaddi team won first place at the block level and is now preparing for district competitions.
A Symbol of Change in Abujhmad
The Olympics are also symbolic of the region’s transformation. Participants note a marked improvement in security and infrastructure in Abujhmad. With reduced Maoist activity and improved living standards, access to basic amenities like roads, electricity, schools, and healthcare has steadily increased. Paved roads now connect remote villages like Irkbhatti, Maspur, and Garpa, while new bus services between Narayanpur and Garpa are enhancing connectivity.
The Bastar Olympics not only celebrate the region’s sporting spirit but also highlight the ongoing development efforts that are reshaping Abujhmad and fostering a brighter future for its residents.
