Former Indian football captain Bhaichung Bhutia has lauded the upcoming Khelo India Tribal Games 2026, calling it a significant step towards identifying and nurturing talent from tribal communities across the country.
Speaking on the initiative, Bhutia described Khelo India as a “good initiative” by both the central government and the Chhattisgarh state government. He emphasised that tribal communities in India have a natural inclination towards sports, a fact already proven through their consistent medal-winning performances at various levels.
Highlighting the untapped potential in tribal regions, Bhutia noted that there is “huge scope in the tribal belt,” and such platforms can play a transformative role in providing opportunities to young athletes.
He further expressed confidence that the Tribal Games will emerge as a major platform for young boys and girls from tribal communities to showcase their abilities and take steps towards representing India at national and international levels in the future.
The Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 is expected to bring together talented athletes from across India’s tribal regions, reinforcing the government’s vision of inclusive sports development and grassroots empowerment.
