The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and the Sports Authority of India (SAI) are proud to announce the inaugural edition of the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026. This landmark event is dedicated to celebrating the raw athletic prowess and rich cultural heritage of India’s tribal communities.
Set against the vibrant landscape of Chhattisgarh, the games will bring together over 2,500 athletes from across the nation to compete on a prestigious national stage.
Event Details
Dates: March 25th – April 3rd, 2026
Host State: Chhattisgarh
Venues: Raipur, Jagdalpur, and Surguja
Official Mascot: Morveer (The Brave Heart of Chhattisgarh)
The 2026 edition features 7 core medal sports and 2 demonstration sports aimed at preserving traditional Indian athletics.
Medal Sports
Athletics (Track & Field)
Archery (The Heart of Tribal Tradition)
Football
Hockey
Swimming
Weightlifting
Wrestling
Demonstration Sports
Mallakhamb & Kabaddi – Showcasing local grit and cultural agility.
Vision & Impact
The Khelo India Tribal Games is more than just a competition; it is a movement to:
Identify Hidden Talent: Scouting elite athletes from the remotest corners of India.
Promote Inclusivity: Ensuring tribal youth have equal access to world-class sporting infrastructure.
Celebrate Heritage: Integrating traditional sports and cultural displays into the national mainstream.
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