Tribal games to double as talent pipeline; C’garh set to stay host

Raipur: The Khelo India Tribal Games are set to evolve beyond a one-off event into a sustained talent pipeline, with Chhattisgarh likely to remain the permanent host. Officials say the platform will focus on identifying, training and supporting tribal athletes through structured scouting, scholarships and access to national training centres.Under the Khelo India talent identification and development vertical, selection is not limited to one tournament. Committee also scout athletes at other competitions. During the Tribal Games, committee representatives will assess participants and identify promising talent, the DDG told TOI. Those selected may be called for trials and can either be inducted as Khelo India athletes or sent directly to Sports Authority of India National Centres of Excellence. If the number of athletes is large or placement at NCOEs is not possible, they can be accommodated at SAI Training Centres, where they receive free training.Sports Authority of India (SAI) deputy director general Mayank Srivastava said the initiative was launched to address a lack of sporting opportunities for certain sections of society, particularly in tribal regions, and to bring more young people into constructive engagement through sports.Shrivastava said athletes chosen under Khelo India on the basis of talent are provided scholarships and training support.