Chhattisgarh’s Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) have delivered one of their strongest sporting performances on the national stage, securing second position in the country at the 4th EMRS National Sports Competition held in Sundargarh, Odisha, from November 11 to 15. The five-day national meet, among the largest platforms for young tribal athletes, brought together nearly 7,000 participants from across India. Chhattisgarh fielded a formidable 516-member contingent, including 466 student athletes, all selected through a multi-tier process involving school, district, divisional and State-level competitions across its 75 EMRS institutions.

 

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated the participants, describing the achievement as a significant milestone in the State’s efforts to strengthen tribal education and sports. “Chhattisgarh’s second-place finish reflects the relentless hard work, discipline, and talent of our young players. My heartfelt congratulations to the entire contingent,” he said. The Chief Minister added that the government is simultaneously expanding facilities, improving coaching systems and upgrading sports infrastructure across residential schools to build a steady pipeline of tribal sporting talent.

 

He acknowledged the contribution of coaches, school management teams and parents, noting that their constant motivation has been vital in helping the students excel on a national platform. “The responsibility of shaping the next generation of tribal sportspersons rests with all of us, and today’s results show that the system is moving in the right direction,” he said. The Chhattisgarh contingent delivered a commanding all-round performance, collecting 162 medals — 55 gold, 43 silver and 64 bronze.

 

The tally underscored the State’s expanding strength in multiple disciplines, with standout contributions in Swimming: 10 gold, 9 silver, 7 bronze; Wrestling: 7 gold; Athletics: 7 gold; Taekwondo: 5 gold; Archery: 5 gold; Judo: 4 gold and Badminton: 4 gold The overall trophy was presented to the Chhattisgarh team during the closing ceremony by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and Union Minister Jual Oram, marking a proud moment for the State and its expanding EMRS system. Chhattisgarh currently operates 75 EMRS institutions with an enrolment of over 27,300 students.

 

Designed to enhance access to quality education for tribal communities, these schools emphasise not only academic excellence but also holistic physical and mental development. Officials said the strong medal haul reflects the outcomes of sustained policy focus on sports training, nutrition, scientific coaching and structured competitive exposure.

 

Tribal Welfare Minister Ramvichar Netam, Principal Secretary Sonmoni Borah and Commissioner Dr Saransh Mittar also congratulated the medal winners, coaches and school teams, stating that the performance showcases the strengthening of the Department of Tribal and Scheduled Caste Development’s efforts to nurture emerging talent at the grassroots level.