Minister of State of Youth Affairs and Sports, Raksha Khadse, today said that the government is trying to popularise India’s indigenous sports globally in a bid to induct them in the Olympics and Commonwealth Games. Mrs Khadse said this while addressing the media during the WAVES Summit in Mumbai. Highlighting the importance of indigenous and native sports, Mrs Khadse said that they promote goodwill and unity, which is why India wants to popularise them to build a sense of community with the world and forge strong relationships. She added that every state has their own traditional and local games which are being promoted by the government.

Also addressing the event, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi said that such games are not just about competition but living the traditions rooted in culture. He added that indigenous sports reflect the resilience, creativity, and wisdom of one’s ancestors and teach generations values of teamwork, endurance, and respect for nature. Mr Majhi further mentioned the state government’s vision to create champions in every village of Odisha and take native sports from the backyard to the global stage.