Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Raksha Khadse attended the first Chhattisgarh Hockey League opening as Guest of Honour in Raipur. The ceremony took place at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Hockey Stadium on Wednesday, October 21, 2026.
Extending the state’s sporting opportunities
The league follows the Khelo India Tribal Games, which brought attention to athletes from tribal communities. It adds a dedicated competitive setting for hockey players and more opportunities for young people to develop through sport. Together, the initiatives form part of Chhattisgarh’s effort to strengthen its sports base and contribute more talent to national competition.
Chhattisgarh’s Department of Sports and Youth Welfare organises the Hockey India-sanctioned league. Six regional franchises will compete at the Raipur stadium during the inaugural season, scheduled from 21 October to 1 November 2026.
Khadse emphasised the importance of organised opportunities for young athletes. Playing alongside experienced national and international competitors, she said, can help local participants move towards higher levels of the sport. Such leagues provide a bridge between grassroots hockey and more demanding competition.
She also called for sustained support across coaching, infrastructure, competition and sporting institutions. Talent development depends on these parts working together, with suitable platforms giving athletes a chance to demonstrate and improve their abilities.
Participation by rural and tribal youth was another priority in her remarks. Connecting emerging players with established athletes can provide exposure, experience and confidence. Khadse highlighted Chhattisgarh’s potential to contribute to the country’s sporting future through such opportunities.
The teams are Rajdhani Royals, Nyayadhani Knights, Sanskardhani Strikers, Chakradhar Champions, Bailadila Bulls and Mainpat Titans. Each squad has 22 players: 18 from Chhattisgarh and four from elsewhere. Former Olympians are included as marquee players.
The season brings together 132 players, including 108 local participants and 24 guests. Plans include 18 men’s matches before the semi-finals and the final on 1 November. A women’s exhibition game will also showcase the sport and encourage broader participation.
Olympian and former India captain Sardar Singh is the league ambassador. Organisers expect his involvement to inspire younger players and connect them with the country’s hockey tradition.
The tiger-inspired mascot Baghwa and the local-language call to play hockey give the competition a Chhattisgarh identity. Its branding is intended to invite communities across the state to engage with the new league.
Cultural performances celebrating the state’s traditions formed part of the opening programme, alongside sporting tributes and entertainment. Punjabi singers Jassi Gill and Babbal Rai were among the featured performers.
The prize fund totals ₹21 lakh. Winners will receive ₹11 lakh and runners-up ₹6 lakh, with individual awards recognising notable performances.
All games are at the Raipur stadium. Spectators can enter free, and JioHotstar will provide live streaming for viewers following the competition remotely.
The league combines government and institutional support with experienced players and emerging talent. By giving local athletes more chances to compete and learn, it aims to develop the state’s contribution to Indian hockey and encourage a new generation to participate.