*New wave of change through sports in tribal regions – Visit of Shri Sachin Tendulkar is inspiring: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai*

*Strong foundation of positive change in Bastar through sports: Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai*

Raipur / Taking on his social media account on Wednesday, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai in a post on X, said that the visit of Bharat Ratna Shri Sachin Tendulkar to Chhindnar village in Dantewada reflects a transforming Bastar moving from fear toward development, opportunity, and confidence. He said such initiatives will guide and inspire youth, while Shri Sachin Tendulkar’s interaction with children promotes sports, confidence, discipline, team spirit, and positive energy.

Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai said the visit of Shri Sachin Tendulkar is a matter of pride for the state and a strong source of inspiration for children and youth.

He added that the ‘Maidan Cup Campaign’ organised by the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation and Mann Deshi Foundation is a visionary step for sports infrastructure, especially in tribal areas, aiding holistic development. The state government continues to prioritize sports and youth development.

*Shri Sachin Tendulkar lays the foundation of a sports revolution in Chhindnar village of Dantewada*

*Future of forest-region youth to be shaped through Shri Sachin and Mann Deshi Foundation*

*Foundation committed to providing basic sports facilities for local sports talents*

*In student life, discipline and hard work are as essential as talent – Shri Sachin Tendulkar*

Swami Atmanand Hindi Medium High School, Chhindnar, witnessed a historic moment as Shri Sachin Tendulkar inaugurated a multi-sports ground built by his foundation and Mann Deshi Foundation- its founder Chetna Sinha and Tendulkar family members were present.

The ambiance was infused with enthusiasm after Shri Sachin, his daughter Sara, and daughter-in-law Saaniya participated in activities like tug-of-war, volleyball, running, and kho-kho, encouraging children and boosting confidence, team spirit, and enthusiasm. Students Bhumika Thakur, Niyasa Maurya, Nirmala Tarma, Payal Thakur, Sitaram Punem, and Amit Kumar briefed Shri Sachin Tendulkar about sports activities.

After inauguration, Shri Sachin Tendulkar emphasized that producing champions requires both passion and strong grassroots infrastructure. He highlighted the importance of multiple sports for strategic and mental development.

Under this initiative, playgrounds are being developed in 50 villages, promoting cricket, football, and kabaddi. Shri Sachin Tendulkar said he began from the playground and compared children to diamonds needing polishing, praising coaches’ efforts. He stressed hard work, discipline, and avoiding shortcuts for success.

Shri Tendulkar recalled his father’s role and advised balancing sports and studies. He credited his wife Anjali Tendulkar for the foundation, with Sara, son Arjun Tendulkar, and Saaniya continuing the work. Children celebrated his upcoming birthday with a cake, filling the venue with “Happy Birthday” applause from the children.

At the end, Shri Tendulkar was presented terracotta and iron craft mementos. Winners of sports events received mementos from him.

Collector Shri Devesh Kumar Dhruv said Bastar is progressing toward peace and development, rich in talent and natural potential. With proper guidance, children can achieve national and international recognition. He emphasized sports, education, and skills for youth development and encouraged discipline and continuous effort.

Bastar Commissioner Shri Doman Singh, IG Shri Sundarraj P, SP Shri Gaurav Rai, CEO Shri Jayant Nahata, DFO Shri Ramakrishna Ranganatha Vay, public representatives, and foundation members were also present.