Chhattisgarh boosts sports ecosystem with Rs 100 crore budget and Mukhyamantri Khel Utkarsh Mission
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai has been recently prioritizing sport and development of youngsters in the state and with this the same Chhattisgarh is giving a new dimension to its sporting identity, which is being strengthened. During his administration, sports has come to be seen not only as a sport, but an important tool for youth empowerment and social development.
The ‘Mukhyamantri Khel Utkarsh Mission’ programme by the state government has taken a major leap in this direction. Sports infrastructure and player development has also been boosted, Rs 100 crore has been allocated in the current budget. Funds will be directed toward infrastructure projects, as well as ensuring athletes have access to top quality equipment, top quality training and better opportunities.
The Government has also laid stress on promoting and identifying sporting talent from Chhattisgarh. A major step has been taken in appointing 156 outstanding sportspersons for government jobs, which is an effort by the state towards supporting its sportsmen beyond playing successful games.
Receiving a retirement package of Rs 30 lakh and a state out-of-turn appointment as a DSP, the Commonwealth Games silver medalist for Gyaneshwari Yadav, serves as much-needed recognition to her accomplishment and an empowerment message to young sports enthusiasts in the State.
Various initiatives like Bastar Olympics and Surguja Olympics have provided opportunities to the young athletes from the far-flung tribal and remote areas at the grassroots level. They have allowed opportunities to be identified to uncover sporting talent which might have been previously unnoticed.
Highlighting the depth of the sporting talent the first-ever Khelo India Tribal Games held in the state has not been lacking in the state. The program proved that the state simply lacks talent, and that only a proper medium and encouragement along with a roadmap for development can help athletes grow.
Women involvement in sports is another aspect that the government has paid attention to. Chhattisgarh physician, Akanksha Satyavanshi was among the members who were honored and gifted a Tata Sierra car for her contribution in the Indian women’s cricket team.
The schemes form a part of the wider sport development plan in the state of Chhattisgarh, the plan includes sports infrastructure and development, athlete recognition, grassroot sports competitions and opportunities. The state government has said that its athletes victory, especially the daughters, is something which brings pride to the entire state.