Chhattisgarh Hockey League a role model for the country: Mandaviya

CM Sai says league will provide a strong platform to sporting talent from across the State to gain national and international recognition

RAIPUR, Nov 1: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya described the Chhattisgarh Hockey League as a role model for the entire country, stating that hockey is a matter of national pride. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said the league would provide a strong platform for talented players from the State to showcase their skills and gain recognition at national and international levels.

Both leaders were addressing the concluding ceremony and prize distribution function of the Chhattisgarh Hockey League at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in Raipur on Sunday. They congratulated the winning and runner-up teams and appreciated the players for their performances.

CM Sai said Chhattisgarh had immense sporting talent, particularly in villages, tribal regions and remote areas. The need was to provide young players with proper opportunities, modern coaching facilities and adequate sports infrastructure. He said the State Government was working towards achieving this objective.

Six teams — Capital Royals, Nyaydhani Knights, Sanskardhani Strikers, Chakradhar Champions, Bailadila Bulls and Mainpat Titans — participated in the league, providing players from Bastar to Surguja and Raigarh to Rajnandgaon an opportunity to compete and share their experiences.

He highlighted the participation of an Olympic player in each team, which enabled young hockey players to learn from experienced international-level athletes. The matches were also broadcast on JioHotstar, with commentary in Hindi and Chhattisgarhi.

The Chief Minister said the newly launched Mukhyamantri Khel Utkarsh Mission would help identify sporting talent in villages and remote areas and connect promising players with training centres.

Dr Mandaviya said the league demonstrated how strong government commitment could promote sports and nurture talented players. Referring to Major Dhyan Chand’s contribution to Indian hockey, he said the sport remained an integral part of the country’s sporting legacy.

Deputy Chief Ministers Arun Sao and Vijay Sharma, Skill Development Minister Guru Khushwant Saheb, MP Brijmohan Agrawal and league ambassador Sardar Singh were also present.