Bilaspur, Jan 7 (NationPress) The city is buzzing with excitement as tribal athletes from across Chhattisgarh come together for the selection trials of the forthcoming Khelo India National Tribal Games. These trials are organized by the Sports and Youth Welfare Department of the Chhattisgarh government, offering both online and offline registration options for the athletes.

Participants are required to bring original copies of their Scheduled Tribe certificates and Aadhaar cards to the trials, marking the first time Bilaspur has hosted these crucial selection events.

From January 6 to January 8, selection trials are being conducted in Raipur and Bilaspur to form the state teams for the competition, incorporating seven sports disciplines.

The Raipur trials feature weightlifting, wrestling, football, and hockey, while Bilaspur focuses on archery, athletics, and swimming.

The trials commenced at the B.R. Yadav Stadium at 9 am, hosting archery, athletics, and swimming events for both genders, with no age restrictions for participation.

There is palpable enthusiasm among the athletes, many of whom have expressed gratitude to the government for providing this opportunity.

Chandni Sahu, an archery national medallist, praised the facilities available at the selection trials, stating, "Trials for archery and athletics are happening in Bilaspur, and players from Dantewada, Raipur, and other districts have come to participate. The management is excellent," she shared with IANS.

Archery coach Shraddha Sonwani emphasized that the primary goal of the Khelo India National Tribal Games is to uplift and recognize tribal athletes.

Durgesh Pratap Singh, a recurve and compound coach, expressed gratitude to the central government for incorporating international events into the competition, noting that around 40 to 50 players have participated in the trials so far.

Sushil Mishra, vice-president of the Chhattisgarh Athletics Association, highlighted that these trials aim to build a strong team for the Khelo India National Tribal Games.

Athlete Satyapal Kawachi shared his excitement about the games, stating he has eagerly awaited this chance to compete, also thanking the government for the initiative that he believes will lead Chhattisgarh’s youth in a positive direction.