TFP Bureau, Raipur, February 20, 2025 – P.T. Usha, President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) and Rajya Sabha MP, met with Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai in New Delhi today. The meeting focused on the future of sports development in Chhattisgarh, with discussions centered around training young athletes, strengthening sports infrastructure, and preparing for Olympic-level competitions.
Chief Minister Sai emphasized the state government’s commitment to supporting local sports talent and ensuring that Chhattisgarh athletes gain recognition on both national and international platforms. He highlighted the government’s decision to provide significant incentives for Olympic medal winners from the state, including Rs 3 crore for a gold, Rs 2 crore for a silver, and Rs 1 crore for a bronze.
IOA Expert Team to Train Chhattisgarh Athletes
During the meeting, P.T. Usha proposed sending a delegation of IOA experts to Chhattisgarh. This team will include experienced coaches and sports specialists who will provide high-level training to local athletes. The initiative aims to prepare athletes for Olympic-level competitions and enhance their techniques. Usha praised the existing sports talent in Chhattisgarh and stated that with the right guidance, these athletes can perform at the national and international level. She also commended the Chhattisgarh government’s proactive role in promoting sports, calling it a model for other regions in India.
State-Sponsored Events to Foster Young Talent
Chief Minister Sai also highlighted the state’s efforts to foster youth participation in sports through special events. He mentioned the success of the recently held ‘Bastar Olympics,’ which saw participation from over 1.65 lakh youth. The event aimed at preparing local athletes for national and international competition. Additionally, the state is organizing the ‘Abujhmad Peace Half Marathon’ on March 2, 2025, which will feature more than 5,000 participants in three categories: 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km. Through such events, the government is not only encouraging youth to engage in sports but is also laying the foundation for Chhattisgarh to become a prominent sports hub in India.
This collaboration between the Chhattisgarh government and the Indian Olympic Association marks a new era in the state’s sports development, offering athletes the opportunity to reach new heights.
