NEW DELHI, july 21
Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai attended the closing ceremony and prize distribution event of the WAKO India National Kickboxing Championship 2025, held at the Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur on Sunday evening.
Welcoming around 1,200 athletes and 300 coaches from 28 states across India, CM Sai said it was a matter of pride for Chhattisgarh, the maternal home of Lord Shri Ram and the sacred land of Mata Kaushalya, to host a prestigious national sporting event. He thanked the WAKO India National Kickboxing Federation for choosing Chhattisgarh as the host state.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister highlighted the unique cultural and ecological identity of Chhattisgarh. Describing it as a small but resource-rich state in central India, he said, “Nearly 44% of Chhattisgarh is covered by lush green forests, including the remote and dense Abujhmad region, where even sunlight struggles to reach.” He also spoke of the state’s scenic waterfalls, ancient caves, mineral wealth, and vibrant tribal culture. CM Sai reiterated that, in line with Union Home Minister Amit Shah’s firm resolve, Naxalism in the state is nearing its end. He urged participants to take time to explore the state’s natural beauty and cultural heritage during their stay. “Kickboxing instills courage, resilience, and determination in youth,” he remarked, adding that the championship would significantly boost Chhattisgarh’s growing presence on the national sports map.
Commending the Kickboxing Association of Chhattisgarh for its successful organisation of the event, the Chief Minister said, “Sports are an essential part of life. They not only enhance physical fitness but also nurture discipline, confidence, and dedication.” Encouraging athletes to pursue their dreams with hard work and passion, he said, “Victory and defeat are part of the journey, but the real objective should be to discover and sharpen one’s inner potential.” Highlighting the government’s commitment to sports, CM Sai praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Khelo India programme and noted that all 33 districts of Chhattisgarh have been brought under its ambit to ensure equitable opportunities for athletes from both urban and rural areas.
He said the state is actively developing sports infrastructure, improving training standards, and offering incentive schemes. He also announced that athletes winning medals at prestigious international events such as the Olympics are eligible for cash awards ranging from ?1 crore to ?3 crore. Outlining the Chhattisgarh Sports Promotion Scheme, the Chief Minister said it includes upgradation of playgrounds, provision of modern equipment, financial support to sports clubs, and the revival of traditional sports. In conclusion, CM Sai congratulated all participants for their spirited performances and expressed hope that Chhattisgarh will soon become a frontrunner in India’s sporting achievements. Also speaking at the event, Member of Parliament Brijmohan Agrawal emphasized the importance of kickboxing for girls as a means of self-defence.
He encouraged students to incorporate sports into their daily routines, noting, “A healthy body nurtures a healthy mind.” He lauded the government’s efforts in building sports academies and infrastructure across the state under CM Sai’s leadership.
The event was attended by WAKO India National Kickboxing Federation President Santosh Agrawal, Chhattisgarh Kickboxing Association President Chhagan Mundra, State Minority Commission Chairman Amarjeet Chhabra, Observer Renu Pareekh, Murli Sharma, public representatives, and hundreds of sports enthusiasts.
In the final medal tally, Punjab emerged as champions with 22 gold, 18 silver, and 26 bronze medals. Maharashtra claimed second place with 21 gold, 16 silver, and 29 bronze medals, followed by Tamil Nadu in third place with 12 gold, 14 silver, and 15 bronze medals. Chhattisgarh stood sixth, earning national recognition with 8 gold, 13 silver, and 37 bronze medals, an achievement celebrated by the state. The Assam Rifles team was awarded the title of Most Disciplined Team.
