Raipur, Chhattisgarh: Chhattisgarh has taken a major step towards strengthening its hockey ecosystem with the launch of the Chhattisgarh Hockey League at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in Raipur. Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Nikhil Khadse and Chhattisgarh Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Arun Sao attended the inauguration, describing the league as an important platform for nurturing emerging talent.
Calling the competition a “Mahakumbh of hockey”, Arun Sao said its message would resonate across the state through the slogan, “Chalo Re Sangi, Hockey Khelbo” (Come, friends, let’s play hockey).
The inaugural ceremony blended sporting enthusiasm with Chhattisgarh’s rich folk culture. Traditional dance performances and cultural presentations welcomed the players as all six franchise teams entered the stadium carrying their respective flags. The ceremony concluded with the unveiling of the league trophy, building excitement for the competition.
Raksha Khadse Highlights the Importance of Promoting Sports
Presiding over the inaugural ceremony, Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse said India was steadily advancing in the sporting arena, with efforts underway to take sports to every household.
She highlighted the initiatives being undertaken in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of expanding sporting opportunities and said both government support and participation from private institutions were important for developing young talent.
Khadse noted that sports beyond cricket were increasingly receiving attention and expressed confidence that Chhattisgarh could emerge as a prominent sporting hub.
Speaking to journalists, she welcomed the state government’s initiative, saying the league would give hockey players a stronger platform to showcase their abilities. She also assured that the Centre would continue to extend the necessary support for sports development.
Arun Sao Calls the League a Milestone for Hockey
Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister Arun Sao said the Chhattisgarh Hockey League would become a memorable chapter in the state’s sporting history.
He recalled that Chhattisgarh had produced several accomplished hockey players, including Vincent Lakra, Mrinal Choubey, Renuka Yadav and Saba Anjum. The league, he said, would create opportunities for the next generation to develop their skills and compete at a higher level.
Referring to Prime Minister Modi’s message, “Jo Khelega, Woh Khilega” (Those who play will flourish), Sao said sports help build confidence, discipline and leadership alongside physical ability.
Memories of India’s Junior Hockey World Cup Triumph
Sao also recalled India’s achievements in international hockey, noting that the occasion coincided with the anniversary of the Indian junior team’s World Cup triumph 25 years ago.
Devesh Chauhan, a member of that historic winning team, is now serving as the head coach of a team in the Chhattisgarh Hockey League. His experience, combined with the energy of young players, is expected to provide valuable learning opportunities for emerging hockey talent.
Six Franchise Teams Compete in the League
According to Sports Department Secretary Yashwant Kumar, the league is scheduled to run from October 22 to November 1, with six franchise teams participating.
Each team has a squad of 22 players, comprising 18 local players from Chhattisgarh and four established players with national or international experience. The format is designed to help local players learn from experienced professionals and prepare for higher levels of competition.
The six participating teams and their associated organisations are:
- Chakradhar Champions — Jindal Steel Limited
- Nyaydhani Knights — South Eastern Coalfields Limited (SECL)
- Rajdhani Royals — Shri Bajrang Power and Ispat Limited
- Mainpat Tigers — Chhattisgarh Tourism Board
- Sanskaradhani Strikers — Sarda Energy and Minerals Limited
- Bailadila Bulls — NMDC Limited
The involvement of corporate organisations and public sector enterprises is expected to strengthen institutional support for hockey and create additional opportunities for the state’s players.
Two Matches Daily; Women’s Hockey Also Gets a Platform
All matches are being held at the Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium in Raipur. Two matches are scheduled each day, with the first starting at 5:30 pm and the second at 7:30 pm.
A special exhibition match featuring women players was also organised on the opening day. The initiative aims to encourage women’s participation in hockey and inspire more players to pursue the sport.
The tournament is being conducted under the supervision of authorised Hockey India officials, providing players with exposure to competition standards and procedures used at the national level.
Free Entry for Spectators, Live Streaming on JioHotstar
To make the tournament accessible to the public, entry for spectators has been kept free. Students, sports enthusiasts and residents can watch the matches at the stadium.
Those unable to attend in person can follow the action through live streaming on JioHotstar, as stated in the event information provided by the organisers.
A New Opportunity for Chhattisgarh’s Hockey Talent
The Chhattisgarh Hockey League is intended to be more than a sporting competition. By bringing local players together with experienced athletes and securing support from corporate organisations, the initiative seeks to build a stronger foundation for hockey in the state.
With six franchise teams, opportunities for young players and a special focus on women’s participation, the league aims to generate renewed interest in hockey across Chhattisgarh.
The message “Chalo Re Sangi, Hockey Khelbo” captures the spirit of the initiative: encouraging more young people to take up the sport and helping Chhattisgarh strengthen its presence on India’s hockey map.
