Chhattisgarh Strengthens Olympic Bid with Green Campaign

*2036 saplings planted in Naya Raipur to back India's Olympic bid* *CM Shri Vishnu Deo Sai highlights sports infrastructure push, honours athletes on Olympic Day* Raipur, June 23, 2026/ Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai planted a Rudraksha sapling and participated in a plantation drive and athlete felicitation programme organised by the Chhattisgarh Olympic Association at Palod village in Naya Raipur on the occasion of International Olympic Day. Marking India's bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games, a total of 2,036 saplings were planted as a symbolic gesture supporting the national aspiration. Shri Sai said the initiative represented a commitment towards building a healthier, greener and stronger India for future generations. Extending greetings to athletes, coaches and sports enthusiasts on International Olympic Day, the Chief Minister said the state government is continuously working to promote sporting talent and create modern sports infrastructure. Chhattisgarh has successfully hosted the Khelo India National Tribal Games while Bastar Olympics which has emerged as a platform for nurturing sporting talent from remote regions. Participation of lakhs of youth in this year's Bastar Olympics reflected the growing sports culture in the state, he added. Shri Sai said the government has made dedicated budgetary provisions for sports and introduced incentive schemes to encourage athletes delivering outstanding performances at national and international levels. Deputy Chief Minister Shri Arun Sao said the state government, under the leadership of Shri Vishnu Deo Sai, is taking several initiatives to strengthen sports development. Forest Minister Shri Kedar Kashyap highlighted the success of the Bastar Olympics and said the Surguja Olympics is providing similar opportunities to youth across the region. Highlighting “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign he urged people to step up plantation efforts across the state. Skill Development Minister Shri Guru Khushwant Saheb, Chhattisgarh Olympic Association General Secretary Dr Vikram Singh Sisodia, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests Shri Arun Kumar Pandey, BSF IG Shri Sanjay Pant and other dignitaries were present on the ocasson.