‘GRAMODAYA’ Campaign: Odisha Govt to Provide Sports Kits to 485 Maoist-Affected Villages

In a significant initiative aimed at youth empowerment and social integration, the Odisha government has launched the “GRAMODAYA” campaign to engage young people in Maoist-affected regions through sports and community development.

Focus on Youth in Remote Areas

The programme, implemented by the Department of Sports and Youth Services, targets 485 villages across 10 Maoist-affected districts—Bargarh, Balangir, Boudh, Kandhamal, Kalahandi, Koraput, Malkangiri, Nabarangpur, Nuapada, and Rayagada.

The initiative aligns with the state government’s broader vision of bringing youth from remote and vulnerable regions into the mainstream by promoting constructive activities and reducing the influence of extremism.

₹2.42 Crore Allocation for Sports Development

The government has sanctioned a total budget of ₹2.42 crore for the scheme. Each village will receive a sports kit worth ₹50,000, ensuring access to both outdoor and indoor games.

The kits will include equipment for popular outdoor sports such as cricket, football, volleyball, and badminton, along with indoor games like chess and carrom. The move is expected to encourage participation in physical activities while nurturing grassroots-level talent.

Community Participation at the Core

A unique feature of the GRAMODAYA campaign is its community-driven approach. Local youth clubs will be responsible for procuring the sports equipment, ensuring transparency and local involvement.

In villages where youth clubs do not exist, the District Sports Officers will take steps to form new clubs. This is expected to create a structured platform for youth engagement and leadership development.

Promoting Peace and Social Harmony

Beyond sports, the initiative carries a deeper message of peace, progress, and social harmony in Maoist-affected regions. By engaging youth in positive and disciplined activities, the government aims to counter alienation and foster a sense of belonging.

Unearthing Hidden Talent

The GRAMODAYA campaign is also designed to identify and nurture hidden sporting talent from remote areas. By providing basic infrastructure and opportunities, the state hopes to create pathways for rural youth to excel at higher levels.

Overall, the initiative marks a proactive step toward inclusive development, using sports as a powerful tool for transformation in Odisha’s most vulnerable regions.