Bilaspur (Chhattisgarh), Dec 23 (NationPress) The logo, theme song, and mascot for the inaugural Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) were officially launched on Tuesday at the Late B. R. Yadav Sports Stadium in Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh, with the games slated for February 14, 2026.

The event was attended by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai and Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao as esteemed guests, along with officials from the Union Sports Ministry, State Government, and Sports Authority of India.

During the ceremony, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, emphasized the role of these games in enhancing the talent pool from tribal regions.

“The Khelo India Tribal Games amplifies the range of opportunities for athletes across the nation. Recognizing talent from tribal areas is essential, and it is imperative to broaden our athlete base. We will systematically identify and support talented youth from tribal communities, integrating them into the national sports framework,” he stated.

The KITG 2026 will be overseen by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Sports Authority of India (SAI), Indian Olympic Association, National Sports Federations, and the Chhattisgarh state organizing committee, adhering to international technical standards.

A significant highlight of the launch event was the introduction of the official mascot ‘Morveer’, a name that draws from Chhattisgarh’s rich cultural heritage. 'Mor' translates to 'mine' or 'our' in Chhattisgarhi, while 'Veer' signifies bravery and heroism, embodying the spirit, pride, and identity of India’s tribal communities.

The inaugural edition will feature seven competitive sports disciplines — Archery, Athletics, Football, Hockey, Wrestling, Swimming, and Weightlifting, along with two demonstration sports that will honor India’s indigenous sporting customs.

One of the primary goals of the Khelo India Tribal Games is to identify and nurture talent. Athletes recognized during the Games will be inducted as Khelo India Athletes, qualifying for scholarships of ₹5 lakh annually for eight years, providing financial aid and comprehensive support aimed at fostering long-term athlete development. The Games strive to incorporate this extensive talent pool into India’s mainstream sports.

Chhattisgarh stands as the first state to host this historic national event exclusively for tribal athletes, marking a significant milestone in India’s sporting narrative focused on tribal empowerment and grassroots inclusion.

The Khelo India Tribal Games is an integral part of the Khelo India Scheme, a premier Central Sector initiative by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, designed to encourage mass participation and sporting excellence. The Khelo India Games were designated as an ‘Event of National Importance’ in 2020 under the Sports Broadcasting Signals Act, 2007.

To date, seven editions of Khelo India Youth Games, five editions of Khelo India University Games, six editions of Khelo India Winter Games, two editions of Khelo India Para Games, the first edition of the Khelo India Water Sports Festival, and the first edition of the Khelo India Beach Games have successfully taken place, with participation from 36 States/UTs.