The olympian
From Forest Floors To National Podiums, The Tribal Force Powering Indian Hockey
At the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 in Raipur, Odisha’s double gold in men’s and women’s hockey was more than just a sporting victory; it showcased how the game is transforming lives across the tribal regions of Odisha, Jharkhand, and Chhattisgarh. The northeastern states, renowned for their sporting talent, also shone, with Mizoram progressing to the knockout rounds at KITG 2026.
Odisha’s men's team secured a decisive 4-1 victory over Jharkhand in the final, while the women’s team narrowly defeated Mizoram 1-0 in a tense championship match. Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh also earned spots on the podium, highlighting the growing talent from these areas. However, the true story extends beyond medals, reaching into villages, forests, and communities where hockey has become a symbol of identity and a source of opportunity.
