Raipur, April 1 State Sports Minister Raksha Khadse said on Wednesday that the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games have given a new direction to Chhattisgarh, which was previously "known for Naxalism" and was perceived as "backward".
Khadse visited Raipur as part of the ongoing Games and praised the Sports Authority of India (SAI) for organizing the event.
With over 2,500 athletes from all states and Union Territories competing across disciplines, Khadse said KITG 2026 reflects the central government's commitment to providing tribal youth with a platform to build their future.
"There was a time when Chhattisgarh was known for Naxalism, and its people were perceived as a backward community. Today, I feel a new direction is opening up for this region," she said.
"Naxalism has been eliminated, and through sport, the youth of this land can now bring their energy and potential forward and play for this nation," she added.
Home Minister Amit Shah has declared that Naxalism has been eradicated from across the country.
Khadse expressed confidence that athletes competing at these Games will go on to represent India at the Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.
She also spoke about the "transformational impact" of the Asmita League to bring women from rural India into competitive sport and give them an identity and an opportunity.
"At KITG 2026, the results are emphatic: approximately 60 to 70 per cent of the girls competing in hockey and football are medal-winning Asmita League alumni, including standout athlete Anjali Munda.
"All five gold medals won in swimming were also clinched by Asmita League athletes," she pointed out.