CM Dr. Mohan Yadav inaugurated Khelo MP Youth Games 2026 in Bhopal, promoting sports, traditional games, and youth development across the state.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav highlighted that Madhya Pradesh boasts a rich tradition of both traditional and modern sports. He emphasized that the Khelo MP Youth Games are more than just a competition—they are a celebration of the state’s sporting heritage. “When an athlete sweats, runs, and strives on the field, it is not only the player but the bright future of the nation that is on the move,” he said. He added that sports have been a matter of pride for centuries and remain an integral part of Indian culture. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is cultivating a new sports culture, hosting major international events, and preparing for the Olympics.
Dr. Yadav officially inaugurated the State-Level Khelo MP Youth Games–2026 on Tuesday evening at Tatya Tope Nagar Stadium, Bhopal. The opening ceremony was marked by vibrant cultural performances, enthusiastic crowds, and the ceremonial lamp lighting. The Chief Minister invited the audience to switch on their mobile torches and chant ‘Bharat Mata Ki Jai,’ marking the occasion with collective participation.
During the event, Dr. Yadav welcomed Padma Shri awardee and renowned Sufi singer Kailash Kher, presenting him with a floral bouquet and a memento. A special dance-drama, ‘From the Field to the Medal,’ was performed, depicting the dedication and perseverance of athletes in shaping their futures through sports.
Dr. Yadav further noted that the state government is also promoting traditional sports. For the first time, games such as Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, Mallakhamb, Pitthi, Tug of War, along with Throwball and Cricket, have been included in the Khelo MP Youth Games. To promote sports tourism and position Madhya Pradesh as a sports hub, the government is constructing an International Sports Complex at Nathoo Barkheda, Bhopal, at a cost of nearly ₹1,000 crore. Once completed, Bhopal will not only be the ‘City of Lakes’ but also a recognized ‘Sports City.’
A video message from Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya was also screened. He praised Madhya Pradesh for engaging nearly one lakh players in the Khelo MP Youth Games and stated that such initiatives contribute to building a strong and developed India.
Sports & Youth Welfare Minister Shri Vishwas Kailash Sarang emphasized that the government is carrying forward Prime Minister Modi’s vision of development and welfare in Madhya Pradesh. He noted that connecting youth with education and sports is essential for a developed nation by 2047. Highlighting the participation of nearly one lakh players across the state, he shared plans to establish a sports complex in every Assembly constituency. He added that Madhya Pradesh has risen from 16th–17th place in sports to 3rd nationally within just two years, reflecting the government’s focus on sports, athletes, and infrastructure.
The event was attended by Deputy Chief Minister Shri Rajendra Shukla, Ministers Shri Tulsiram Silawat, Shri Govind Singh Rajput, Shri Uday Pratap Singh, Shri Chaitanya Kumar Kashyap, Shri Narendra Shivaji Patel, and Smt. Pratibha Bagri, along with MLAs, Bhopal Mayor Smt. Malti Rai, Olympians, public representatives, and players.
Athletes from the state’s nine divisions participated in a march past, followed by the oath of sportsmanship and discipline. The highlight of the inauguration was the live performance by Kailash Kher, whose powerful Sufi and folk singing, accompanied by an energetic aerobic dance show, captivated the audience and filled Tatya Tope Nagar Stadium with excitement and joy.