Region will also gain a positive and new identity through the Bastar Olympics: IG Sundarraj P
Jagdalpur, December 10
Bastar Range Inspector General of Police P Sundarraj stressed on Wednesday that the region will gain a positive and new identity through the ongoing Bastar Olympics.
The 'Bastar Olympics' is an annual event held by the Chhattisgarh Sports and Youth Welfare Department, meant to help the youth and other victims of naxal activities showcase their sports talent.
Speaking to ANI, IG Sundarraj highlighted the decreasing activities of the Naxalites. He added that the divisional-level finals are being held from December 11th to 13th in the Bastar division.
"In the Bastar division, Naxalite activities are decreasing, and a normal and positive situation is continuously developing. In 2024, the Bastar Olympics and Bastar Pandum were organised to integrate young men and women into the mainstream. Seeing its success, the Bastar Olympics were also organised in 2025. After the completion of the district-level programs, the divisional-level finals are being held from December 11th to 13th in the Bastar division," Sundarraj told ANI.
"Players from all seven districts, along with the Nua Baat team, which comprises a combined team of surrendered and rehabilitated Maoist cadres and Naxal victims, are participating. Their total number is over 750. All the team members are preparing with great enthusiasm to participate in the Bastar Olympics. Certainly, programs like the Bastar Olympics are emerging as a significant means for surrendered and rehabilitated Maoist cadres and Naxal victims to reintegrate into society. In the future, the Bastar region will also gain a positive and new identity through the Bastar Olympics," he added.
Last year in December, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his 'Mann Ki Baat', lauded the unique sporting event from Chhattisgarh, 'Bastar Olympics' and said it is bringing a "new revolution."
"Do you know that a unique Olympic has started in our Bastar! Yes, a new revolution is coming into being in Bastar through the first Bastar Olympics," PM Modi said in the 117th episode of 'Mann Ki Baat'.
He highlighted the mascots of the Bastar Olympics, the 'Wild Water Buffalo' and 'Hill Myna,' which reflect the region's rich culture. The Prime Minister explained the defining mantra of this sports event, "Karsay Ta Bastar Barsaye Ta Bastar", which translates to "Bastar will play - Bastar will win."
— ANI
Reader Comments
Finally, some positive news from Bastar. For years we only heard about violence. Sports can truly be a unifying force. Hope this brings lasting peace and opportunities for the talented youth there.
Great step, but I hope the government ensures this isn't just a one-time PR event. Need sustained investment in infrastructure, coaching, and job opportunities for these athletes after the games are over.
As someone who has visited Chhattisgarh, this is fantastic. Integrating surrendered cadres through sports is a very smart and humane approach to rehabilitation. The world needs more stories like this.
"Bastar will play - Bastar will win" – what a powerful mantra! 🆠This is the real development we need to see. Building a new narrative for the region through its own people. More power to all the participants!
Positive news indeed. When youth have a platform and a goal, they move away from negativity. Hope they get proper facilities and exposure. Maybe we'll see a future Olympian emerge from here!
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