RAIPUR,CG,INDIA: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, emphasized the state’s goal to see its athletes win medals in international competitions.

He stressed the importance of identifying 8-10 key sports popular in the region and providing players with top-tier facilities, including residential training, education, and proper nutrition. Sai reiterated the state’s commitment to developing sports talents and elevating them to the world stage. Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Tankaram Verma was also present at the meeting.

Sai reviewed the state's sports infrastructure and highlighted the abundance of young talent, from Surguja to Bastar, that needs proper nurturing. He urged officials to provide updates on proposals awaiting central approval to facilitate further discussion during his upcoming visit to Delhi.

He also addressed the operations of the Khelo India Centre in the state, instructing officials to conduct regular inspections. Referring to the upcoming National Archery Academy at Sanna in Jashpur district, in collaboration with NTPC, Sai noted that the initiative would not only benefit the remote region but also the Pahari Korvas, known for their natural archery skills, giving them a platform to showcase their talent.

Additionally, the Chief Minister called for the effective implementation of sports-related initiatives under the ‘Niyad Nella Nar Yojana’, aimed at expanding facilities in Naxal-affected areas. He stressed that recent decisions have been made with the athletes' interests in mind, ensuring every opportunity for them to thrive.

Himshikhar Gupta, Secretary of the Sports and Youth Welfare Department, updated Sai on various projects, including the construction of integrated sports complexes in Jashpur and Raigarh. He also shared details about the ongoing schemes for promoting sports facilities, the Khel Alankaran Awards, and future action plans for sports development.