Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao Says Sports Will Play a Crucial Role in Building a Capable and Developed Chhattisgarh
TFP Bureau, Raipur, July 28, 2026: Chhattisgarh took a major step towards strengthening its sports ecosystem with the inauguration of its first-ever Sports Conclave, bringing together sports administrators, renowned athletes, sports scientists, coaches and officials from sports associations across the country to chart a roadmap for the state’s sporting future.
The conclave, organized by the Department of Sports and Youth Welfare at a private hotel in Raipur, was inaugurated by Deputy Chief Minister and Sports & Youth Welfare Minister Arun Sao. The day-long event featured multiple sessions focusing on talent identification, sports infrastructure, athlete development, governance and preparations for national and international competitions.
Addressing the inaugural session, Arun Sao said sports would play a pivotal role in building a capable and developed Chhattisgarh by providing young people with opportunities to showcase their talent and achieve holistic development.
“Sports are not just about winning medals; they help build discipline, leadership and confidence. By creating a strong sports ecosystem, we are investing in the future of our youth and the development of the state,” he said.
The Deputy Chief Minister reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting athletes, coaches and sports associations. He stressed the need for optimum utilization of existing sports infrastructure while ensuring better management and greater accessibility for players.
Speaking during the session titled “Leadership, Sports Promotion and Talent Scouting” under the conclave’s theme “Vision to Victory”, Sao said the recommendations emerging from expert discussions would be incorporated into future plans for strengthening sports development in Chhattisgarh. He also emphasized the formation of sports associations for every discipline in all districts and called for transparent, well-organized and professionally managed sports bodies.
Welcoming the participants, Sports and Youth Welfare Department Secretary Yashwant Kumar said the outcomes of the conclave would serve as a key input for the state’s upcoming sports policy. He highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to promote sports and informed participants that sports infrastructure projects worth more than ₹150 crore are currently under implementation across Chhattisgarh.
International footballer and captain of Chhattisgarh’s gold medal-winning women’s football team at the Khelo India Tribal Games, Kiran Pisda, said initiatives such as the Bastar Olympics, Sarguja Olympics and Khelo India Tribal Games have created valuable opportunities for athletes across the state.
She described the Sports Conclave as a landmark initiative that would help formulate a long-term roadmap for preparing athletes to compete successfully at national and international levels.
The conclave was attended by Sports and Youth Welfare Director Tanuja Salam, former international cricketer Rajesh Chauhan, Olympian Jinson Johnson, Chhattisgarh Olympic Association General Secretary Vikram Sisodia, district sports officers, coaches, medal-winning athletes, sports experts and office-bearers of various sports associations. The event marked a significant milestone in the state’s efforts to build a stronger and more competitive sporting ecosystem.
