From villages to victory city: Khelo Youth Games kick off

Bhopal: Thousands of young athletes, coaches and families came together at Tatya Tope Stadium on Tuesday evening as the state-level Khelo MP Youth Games-2026 kicked off in the city, turning the arena into a sea of cheers, lights and youthful energy. For many participants, especially those from small towns and villages, it was a rare opportunity to compete, be seen and dream big on a state-level stage.Chief minister Mohan Yadav inaugurated the event, describing it a vibrant "sports festival" that celebrates MP's rich tradition of both indigenous and modern sports. On this occasion, the CM also felicitated Padma Shri awardee and Sufi singer Kailash Kher, who later captivated the audience with a live performance, accompanied by energetic aerobic dance displays at the stadium.Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya, in a video message, praised the initiative, noting that nearly one lakh players had joined the games in a short span. Sports and Youth Welfare Minister Vishwas Kailash Sarang, in his welcome address, said MP had risen from 17th to third place nationally in sports performance over the past two years and announced plans to develop sports complexes in every assembly constituency.