RAIPUR: Preparations are in full swing for the 24th National Tribal Sports Competition, scheduled to take place in Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, from December 27 to 31.

Organized by the Vanvasi Vikas Samiti Chhattisgarh, in association with the All India Vanvasi Kalyan Ashram, the prestigious event aims to provide a national platform for tribal sports talent.

The inaugural preparations began on Monday with the consecration of Budhadev in the newly constructed temple at the Shabari Kalyan Ashram complex, along with a ceremonial Bhoomi Pujan (worship of Mother Earth) at the Science College grounds. The competition will feature over 800 tribal boys and girls representing approximately 23 states across India.

The competition will showcase football and archery events, with matches scheduled at Kota Stadium and Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University grounds. Tribal athletes will compete in junior and sub-junior categories, displaying their skills and passion in these sports.

Rajeev Sharma, in charge of the Publicity Division of Vanvasi Vikas Samiti, stated that the competition is a vital initiative to identify and nurture tribal sports talent for future national and international representation. He assured that comprehensive arrangements for food, accommodation, and transportation have been made for the participants.

Girls will be housed at the Shabari Kanya Ashram premises in Rohinipuram, while boys will stay at Saraswati Shishu Mandir and Saraswati Shiksha Sansthan campuses. Breakfast and lunch will be provided at the Shabari Kalyan Ashram, and vehicles will transport participants to and from the competition venues.

Winners in both football and archery categories will be awarded medals, trophies, and certificates. The initiative is expected to provide recognition and motivation for tribal athletes to excel further in their respective fields.

Representatives from Kalyan Ashram across the country, including key organizers from Chhattisgarh, have arrived in Raipur to ensure the event's smooth execution.