“Sports Instill Courage, Strength, and Determination in Youth”: CM Vishnu Deo Sai
CM attends the closing ceremony and prize distribution of WAKO India National Kickboxing Championship 2025
Raipur : Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai attended the closing ceremony and prize distribution event of the WAKO India National Kickboxing Championship 2025, held at the Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in the capital city Raipur, late this evening.
Welcoming nearly 1,200 participants and 300 coaches from 28 states across India, CM Sai said it was an honour for Chhattisgarh—the maternal home of Lord Shri Ram and the sacred land of Mata Kaushalya—to host such a prestigious event. He thanked the WAKO India National Kickboxing Federation for selecting the state as the venue.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister introduced participants to the unique features of Chhattisgarh, calling it a small yet rich state located in the heart of India. He highlighted that 44% of the state is covered in picturesque forests, including the dense Abujhmad region spanning over 5,000 square kilometres, where even sunlight struggles to reach. “The state boasts scenic waterfalls, stunning caves, abundant mineral wealth, and cultural diversity,” he added.
CM Sai noted that, in line with the resolve of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Naxalism in Chhattisgarh is now breathing its last. He also invited all the participants to take time out and explore the state’s natural beauty and heritage.
“Kickboxing as a sport develops courage, strength, and unwavering determination in youth,” the Chief Minister said. “This event will undoubtedly strengthen Chhattisgarh’s presence on the national sports map.”
Expressing gratitude to the Kickboxing Association of Chhattisgarh for successfully hosting the grand event, CM Sai said, “Sports are an integral part of life. They not only promote physical fitness but also teach discipline, confidence, and dedication.”
Urging the participants to pursue their goals with hard work, commitment, and passion, he added, “Victory and defeat are part of life, but the real aim should be to recognize and refine one’s potential.”
The Chief Minister lauded the Khelo India programme under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, stating that all 33 districts of Chhattisgarh have been integrated into the scheme to ensure equal opportunities for players from both urban and rural areas.
He emphasized that the state government is placing strong focus on the development of sports infrastructure, quality training, and incentive schemes. He further announced that medal winners at international events like the Olympics are eligible for cash rewards ranging from ₹1 to ₹3 crore, a reflection of the government’s unwavering commitment.
Highlighting the Chhattisgarh Sports Promotion Scheme, CM Sai informed the audience that it encompasses upgradation of sports grounds, provision of advanced equipment, financial assistance to sports clubs, and the promotion of traditional games.
In his concluding remarks, the Chief Minister congratulated all participants for their spirited involvement and expressed hope that Chhattisgarh will emerge as a leader in India’s sporting arena in the coming years.
Addressing the event, Member of Parliament Shri Brijmohan Agrawal said that kickboxing is especially important for girls as a tool of self-defense. He urged all school students to include sports in their daily routine along with academics. “A healthy body fosters a healthy mind,” he remarked, adding that under the leadership of CM Vishnu Deo Sai, the state is making significant strides in promoting sports. He noted the government’s efforts in establishing sports academies and developing core infrastructure across the state.
Mayor Smt. Meenal Chaubey also addressed the gathering, cheering on the athletes and wishing them bright futures.
The event was graced by the presence of WAKO India National Kickboxing Federation President Shri Santosh Agrawal, Chhattisgarh Kickboxing Association President Shri Chhagan Mundra, Chhattisgarh State Minority Commission Chairman Shri Amarjeet Chhabra, Observer Smt. Renu Pareekh, Shri Murli Sharma, local public representatives, and a large number of sports enthusiasts.
In the championship, Punjab secured the first position with 22 gold, 18 silver, and 26 bronze medals. Maharashtra stood second with 21 gold, 16 silver, and 29 bronze medals, while Tamil Nadu bagged third place with 12 gold, 14 silver, and 15 bronze medals. Chhattisgarh earned national recognition by securing the sixth position with 8 gold, 13 silver, and 37 bronze medals, a matter of pride for the state. Assam Rifles was awarded the title of Most Disciplined Team.
