Bhubaneswar, 05 November (H.S.): The two-day State-Level Children's Sports Festival ‘UTSAHA-2026’ was inaugurated at Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar on Thursday, with over 700 children from Child Care Institutions (CCIs) across Odisha's 30 districts participating.

Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the festival by releasing colourful balloons. Addressing the gathering, she highlighted the importance of sports in the holistic development of children and said every child has the right to play, dream and pursue their aspirations with confidence. She reaffirmed the state government's commitment to providing equal opportunities for children.

Rural Development, Panchayati Raj and Drinking Water Minister Rabi Narayan Naik also attended the inaugural ceremony. He appreciated the initiative for providing an inclusive platform to children and stressed the importance of grassroots institutions in identifying and nurturing sporting talent.

Organised by the Odisha State Child Protection Society (OSCPS) under the Department of Women and Child Development, the festival aims to promote physical fitness, teamwork, confidence and sporting abilities among children.

The competitions include 100-metre and 200-metre races, long jump, relay race, football, chess and carrom. Recreational activities and friendly matches have also been arranged to encourage camaraderie and team spirit. The inaugural ceremony featured a march-past by district-level winners.

Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Women and Child Development Department, Mrunalini Darswal, highlighted the importance of integrating care, protection, creativity and physical well-being for children's overall development.

Director of the Department and OSCPS, Monisha Banerjee, delivered the vote of thanks. Additional Secretary Sumitra Kumari Patnaik and other senior officials were also present.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Monalisa Panda