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Sachin Tendulkar Launches 'Maidan Cup' to Transform Naxal-Hit Dantewada

Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar has launched the 'Maidan Cup' initiative in the naxal-affected Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh. The project involves carving out 50 playgrounds from barren lands across participating villages to provide underprivileged children with a platform in sports. Tendulkar shared how his own journey began on a 'maidan' and emphasized the importance of coaching and guidance for the children. The broader aim of the initiative is to reduce crime rates in conflict zones by engaging youth through structured sports programmes.

Key Points: Sachin Tendulkar Launches Maidan Cup in Dantewada

  • 50 playgrounds built in Dantewada villages
  • Aims to provide platform for underprivileged children
  • Part of strategy to reduce crime through sports
  • Coaches to train 100 local teachers
3 min read

From barren lands to playgrounds: Sachin Tendulkar launches 'Maidan Cup' to transform lives in naxal-affected Dantewada

Sachin Tendulkar launches Maidan Cup, transforming barren lands into playgrounds for children in naxal-affected Dantewada, Chhattisgarh.

"My journey also started in a maidan. - Sachin Tendulkar"

Dantewada, April 22

Legendary Indian cricketer Sachin Tendulkar attended the 'Maidan Cup' at Dantewada in Chhattisgarh, an initiative to provide underprivileged children with a platform to perform.

The Maidan Cup competition is going to provide underprivileged children with a platform to perform. For this competition, a total of 50 playgrounds across 50 participating villages across the Dantewada district are being carved out of barren lands.

For villagers long affected by Naxalism, their children getting some scope and exposure for development through sports is a promising start in their overall stride towards a better future.

Speaking during the event, Sachin said, "When we got to know that there was no playing facility or maidan here, I got reminded of my childhood. My journey also started in a maidan. Our foundation is working hard with the Mann Deshi Foundation. When you want to contribute, its reflection lies in the people talking about it. Not the contributors doing the talking."

"When I look at these children, I look back at my journey started in maidans. You need the right coaching and guidance. That is when we (STF and Mann Deshi Foundation) decided to send coaches here, who will train 100 local teachers here to spread knowledge among children," he added.

The legendary cricketer also advised the children present at the event to make friends who give them the right advice.

"The best advice was given to me by my father. He asked me for how long you will last as a cricketer? I was 16 back then and had joined Indian team. You could play 10-15 years, and after that, people should remember you for being a good human being. To do the right things, we should try every day. Today, as a parent, I would like to say that I had heard Arjun's (Tendulkar) interview where he said that five years down the line, he wants to be known as someone who did not do harm to anyone and progress ahead. Anjali and I are extremely proud of him. If my father was here, he would have lauded Arjun right here," he added.

Earlier, taking on his social media handle, Sachin had issued a video message about his foundation developing playgrounds for 50 schools in Dantewada and how competitions will be held for a variety of sports.

Broader impact from the Maidan Cup is aimed at reducing the crime rates in conflict zones by around 20 per cent through sports programmes.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Transforming barren lands into playgrounds is such a powerful metaphor for transforming lives. These kids deserve a childhood filled with play and opportunity, not fear. More such initiatives are needed across all affected districts.
R
Rohit P
The focus on training 100 local teachers is key. It creates sustainability and empowers the community from within. A great model for other NGOs to follow.
S
Sarah B
While the intent is fantastic, I hope there is a long-term plan for maintenance and funding for these 50 playgrounds. Many such projects start with fanfare but fade away. The real test is in 5 years.
V
Vikram M
Sachin's words about his father's advice gave me goosebumps. "People should remember you for being a good human being." That's the real legacy. Using his platform for such grassroots work is truly inspiring. 🙏
K
Kavya N
Amazing! Sports build discipline, teamwork, and resilience. If this can help reduce crime by even 10%, it's a massive win. The government should partner with such foundations to scale this up.
M
Michael C
It's heartening to see a global sports icon focus on the most challenging regions. The psychological impact of having a safe space to play for children in these areas

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