*Chief Minister honoured the medal winners for bringing glory to the State in the 36th National Games*

*Chief Minister announced the total cash prize of Rs. 16.35 lakh for medal-winning players, participating players, and coaches*

*Chief Minister underlines the government's dedication to promoting sports and nurturing talented athletes in the state

Raipur, TNINS

Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel shared the state's commitment to creating a conducive sports environment and establishing new sports academies in the state. He highlighted the world-class training that is being conducted to enhance players' skills in various sports in the state. He made these remarks during the felicitation ceremony held at his residence on International Olympic Day, June 23. He honoured the sportspersons who represented Chhattisgarh in various sports and won medals in the 36th National Games held in Gujarat. The ceremony also acknowledged the contributions of players, coaches, and team managers who participated in the games.

During the ceremony, Chief Minister Mr. Bhupesh Baghel commended the participating players and medal winners of Chhattisgarh in the 36th National Games. He expressed pride in their achievements and acknowledged the significance of sports in gaining national and international recognition for the players of the state. The Chief Minister extended congratulations to all participants and honoured 64 players who won medals in individual and team events. He also honoured 89 other players who participated in various sports disciplines and 38 coaches and managers.

Chief Minister Mr. Baghel highlighted the efforts being made to foster a conducive environment for sports development and the encouragement of players in the state. Recognising the importance of organised efforts and conducive surroundings, he emphasised the need to increase the number of academies, with 21 currently in operation, including two residential academies. The Chief Minister expressed confidence in the abundance of youth talent in the state, citing the achievements of children from Narayanpur who have excelled in Malkhamb at the national and international levels. He acknowledged the consistent participation of Chhattisgarh's players in prestigious events such as the Asian Games, Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and National Games.

During the ceremony, Mr. Devendra Yadav, General Secretary of the Chhattisgarh Olympic Association, praised the abundance of talent and energy displayed by the state's players. He highlighted their consistent success in national competitions and emphasised the need to develop good infrastructure in an organised manner to nurture sports talents. Mr. Yadav stressed the importance of identifying players at the age of 14–15 and systematically honing their skills over a period of time. He also emphasised the extension of sports facilities from divisional headquarters to remote areas so that players from remote areas can also take part in training sessions. Furthermore, Mr. Yadav shared that the Chief Minister has announced a total cash prize of Rs 16.35 lakh for medal-winning players, participating players, and coaches who participated in the 36th National Games.

Chairman of Chhattisgarh Housing Board Mr. Kuldeep Juneja, General Secretary of Chhattisgarh Olympic Association Mr. Devendra Yadav, former Mayor of Raipur Municipal Corporation Mr. Gajraj Pagaria, and office bearers of Chhattisgarh Olympic Association were also present.