Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai attended the annual general meeting of the Chhattisgarh Olympic Association held at the Circuit House auditorium in Raipur. Discussions included the approval of the 2024-25 audit report, the presentation and approval of the 2025-26 annual budget, and the appointment of auditors for 2025-26, along with other significant agenda items. CM Sai emphasized the abundance of sporting talent in Chhattisgarh, stating that the government is committed to recognizing and nurturing these talents. The government has restarted the previously discontinued sports awards ceremony and will soon initiate an outstanding player honor ceremony.
Chief Minister Sai announced the establishment of new Khelo India complexes in Chhattisgarh. He mentioned a recent visit by Union Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya, where they discussed expanding sports infrastructure. Special preparations have been made to encourage athletes, particularly those participating in the Olympics. Gold medalists from the state will receive ₹3 crore, silver medalists ₹2 crore, and bronze medalists ₹1 crore. The Chief Minister also expressed the government’s aim to increase the sports budget and encourage corporate sector participation. He noted the proposal by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India to host the Olympic Games in 2036, with Ahmedabad as the proposed host city. The central government is focused on strengthening the sports system in the country, with the goal of emerging as a major sports power within a decade. Similarly, Chhattisgarh aims to make collective efforts to host national-level sports events.
Cabinet Minister and Vice-President of the association, Kedar Kashyap, highlighted the beginning of sports competitions like the Bastar Olympics under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, providing a platform for sports talent in remote forest areas. The secretary’s report was presented by General Secretary Vikram Sisodia. The event was attended by Vice-Presidents Himanshu Dwivedi and Gajraj Pagaria, Treasurer Sanjay Mishra, and other officials and members associated with the sports association.
