Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai participated in the closing ceremony and prize distribution event of the WAKO India National Kickboxing Championship 2025, held on Sunday at the Sardar Balbir Singh Juneja Indoor Stadium in Raipur.
Welcoming nearly 1,200 athletes and 300 coaches from 28 states across the country, CM Sai described it as a moment of pride for Chhattisgarh to host such a prestigious national event. He noted, “It was an honour for Chhattisgarh—the maternal home of Lord Shri Ram and the sacred land of Mata Kaushalya—to host such a prestigious event.” He expressed gratitude to the WAKO India National Kickboxing Federation for choosing the state as the venue.
Introducing participants to the unique identity of Chhattisgarh, the Chief Minister described it as a small but richly endowed state located in the heart of India. Highlighting the region’s lush landscape, he said, “44% of the state is covered in picturesque forests, including the dense Abujhmad region spanning over 5,000 square kilometres, where even sunlight struggles to reach.” He added, “The state boasts scenic waterfalls, stunning caves, abundant mineral wealth, and cultural diversity.”
CM Sai also shared the state’s improving security situation, crediting central leadership for progress against extremism. “In line with the resolve of Union Home Minister Shri Amit Shah, Naxalism in Chhattisgarh is now breathing its last,” he noted. He also invited attendees to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Chhattisgarh during their stay.
Emphasizing the value of martial arts, he said, “Kickboxing as a sport develops courage, strength, and unwavering determination in youth.” He added that the successful hosting of the championship would further boost the state’s image on the national sporting map.
Thanking the Kickboxing Association of Chhattisgarh for organising the championship efficiently, the Chief Minister said, “Sports are an integral part of life. They not only promote physical fitness but also teach discipline, confidence, and dedication.”
Encouraging the young athletes to remain focused on their ambitions, he remarked, “Victory and defeat are part of life, but the real aim should be to recognize and refine one’s potential.”
Highlighting the state's inclusion in national sports programmes, CM Sai praised the Centre’s initiatives. He said, “All 33 districts of Chhattisgarh have been integrated into the [Khelo India] scheme to ensure equal opportunities for players from both urban and rural areas.”
He reiterated the state’s commitment to promoting sports by investing in infrastructure, training, and incentives. He also announced, “Medal winners at international events like the Olympics are eligible for cash rewards ranging from ₹1 to ₹3 crore, a reflection of the government’s unwavering commitment.”
Speaking about state-level sports development efforts, CM Sai pointed to the Chhattisgarh Sports Promotion Scheme. He said it involves the upgradation of sports grounds, provision of advanced equipment, financial assistance to sports clubs, and promotion of traditional games.
In his concluding remarks, he congratulated the participants for their enthusiastic involvement and expressed confidence in Chhattisgarh’s rising status in the national sports arena.
Addressing the audience, Member of Parliament Shri Brijmohan Agrawal underscored the relevance of combat sports for young girls. “Kickboxing is especially important for girls as a tool of self-defense,” he said. He encouraged school students to incorporate sports in their daily schedules alongside studies, saying, “A healthy body fosters a healthy mind.” He also lauded CM Sai’s leadership in pushing forward the state’s sports agenda and highlighted steps being taken to build academies and strengthen infrastructure.
Mayor Smt. Meenal Chaubey also spoke at the event, expressing her support and best wishes to the athletes.
The event was attended by WAKO India National Kickboxing Federation President Shri Santosh Agrawal, Chhattisgarh Kickboxing Association President Shri Chhagan Mundra, Chhattisgarh State Minority Commission Chairman Shri Amarjeet Chhabra, Observer Smt. Renu Pareekh, Shri Murli Sharma, local representatives, and a large number of sports enthusiasts.
In terms of performance, Punjab topped the medal tally with 22 gold, 18 silver, and 26 bronze medals. Maharashtra followed with 21 gold, 16 silver, and 29 bronze medals, while Tamil Nadu finished third, bagging 12 gold, 14 silver, and 15 bronze medals. Chhattisgarh also performed commendably, securing sixth place with 8 gold, 13 silver, and 37 bronze medals—a moment of pride for the host state. The Assam Rifles team was recognised with the title of Most Disciplined Team.
