Bastar Olympics is a platform where development and sports are converging.
Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai expressed gratitude on behalf of the people of the state.
He stated that the Bastar Olympics demonstrates that every challenge can be overcome through peace, development, and collective efforts.
Raipur, December 29, 2024/ In the 117th episode of “Mann Ki Baat” on Sunday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded the Bastar Olympics 2024, organized by the Chhattisgarh government under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai. Mr. Modi stated that the first-ever Bastar Olympics is birthing a new revolution in Bastar. He expressed his happiness at the realization of the Bastar Olympics dream, noting that this Olympics is taking place in an area that once witnessed Maoist violence. Mr. Modi mentioned that the mascot of the Bastar Olympics is the wild buffalo and the hill myna, reflecting Bastar’s rich culture. The motto of this Bastar sports extravaganza is, “Khelega Bastar, Jeetega Bastar” (Bastar will play, Bastar will win).
Prime Minister Modi, praising Bastar Olympics-2024, said that in its first edition, 165,000 players from the 7 districts of Bastar division participated. He emphasized that this is not just a number but a glorious saga of the youth’s resolve. Our youth showcased their talent in athletics, archery, badminton, football, hockey, weightlifting, karate, kabaddi, kho-kho, and volleyball.
Prime Minister Modi also mentioned the enthusiasm of the participants in the Mann Ki Baat. He spoke of Kari Kashyap from a small village, who won a silver medal in archery, saying that the Bastar Olympics gave them not just a playing field but an opportunity to move forward in life. Prime Minister Modi said that the story of Sukma’s Payal Kawasi is equally inspiring; Payal, who won a gold medal in javelin throw, says that with discipline and hard work, no goal in life is impossible.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted the story of Punem Sanna, who resides in Dornapal, Bastar, calling it an inspiring tale of New India. Once influenced by Naxalites, Punem is now winning medals by racing in a wheelchair; his courage and determination are an inspiration to all. Ranju Sori, an archer from Kondagaon, has been chosen as the Bastar Youth Icon; she believes that the Bastar Olympics is providing an opportunity for youth from remote areas to reach a national platform. The Bastar Olympics is not just a sporting event; it’s a platform where development and sports converge, where our youth are honing their talents and building a new India.
Prime Minister Modi praised the organization of the Bastar Olympics and stressed the need to promote such events. He called for encouraging such sporting events and giving local sports talents an opportunity to excel. He said that sports not only lead to physical development but are also a powerful and effective means of uniting society through the development of sportsmanship.
Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai expressed the gratitude of the people of the state for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s praise of the Bastar Olympics. Mr. Sai said that under the able guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Chhattisgarh state government is committed to bringing about change in Bastar and improving the lives of its people. The participation of over 1.65 lakh people in the Bastar Olympics reflects its success. In Bastar, the sound of guns is no longer heard; instead, the roar of sports and the smiles of happy people are visible. This encouragement and trust from Prime Minister Narendra Modi will surely give our government new energy to work for Bastar’s progress, and will boost the morale of the people of Bastar. The enthusiasm, energy and participation of the people have given this event national recognition. This event will further strengthen the possibilities of development in the region through sports and cultural events in the future. Chief Minister Sai said that the organization of the Bastar Olympics proves that every challenge can be overcome through peace, development and collective efforts.