The 4th National Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) Sports Competition concluded today in Rourkela, with Telangana clinching the championship title in both team and individual events by securing the highest points.
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, who attended the closing ceremony at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium, emphasised the importance of sports in building physical strength, discipline, morale, and team spirit among students.
In his address, the Chief Minister announced that the state government is constructing world-class stadiums in every block to provide top-tier sports infrastructure to rural children. “Sports facilities at a global level should not be limited to urban kids; rural children must also have access. That’s why we’re ensuring robust sports infrastructure at the block level,” Majhi stated. He highlighted Odisha’s progress in EMRS development, noting that the state has been sanctioned the highest number in the country—114 EMRS schools—with 47 already operational across 17 districts, educating over 12,000 students.
Majhi also revealed plans to establish a regional office for EMRS in Rourkela and expressed gratitude to the Union Minister for Tribal Affairs for the announcement. Union Minister Jual Oram, who attended as the guest of honour, motivated the participating students and encouraged their pursuit of excellence in sports.
The three-day event, held across Rourkela, Rajgangpur, and Sundargarh, saw participation from approximately 5,500 athletes representing 21 states and one Union Territory. Competitors engaged in over 35 sports disciplines, showcasing talent and fostering national unity among tribal youth. At the ceremony, Chief Minister Majhi presented the championship trophy to the victorious Telangana team.
Prominent attendees included Odisha Assembly Deputy Speaker Bhabani Shankar Bhoi, Rourkela MLA Sarada Prasad Nayak, Raghunathpali MLA Durga Charan Tanti, Rourkela Municipal Corporation Commissioner Ajit Srivastava, international sprinter Dutee Chand, and other dignitaries.
The program commenced with a welcome address by Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the ST&SC Development Department, B. Parameswaran, while Sundargarh District Collector Dr Shubhankar Mohapatra delivered the vote of thanks.
This competition underscores the government’s commitment to empowering tribal students through education and sports, paving the way for their holistic development.
