Odisha: UTSAHA-2026 sports festival begins at Kalinga Stadium
More than 700 young athletes from Child Care Institutions across 30 districts are participating in the two-day state-level event.
The state-level children’s sports festival, UTSAHA-2026, commenced at Kalinga Stadium, featuring over 700 young athletes from Child Care Institutions (CCIs) across all 30 districts of Odisha, according to Pragativadi.
The Odisha State Child Protection Society (OSCPS), under the Department of Women and Child Development, organised the two-day flagship festival to provide vulnerable children a platform to display athletic abilities and build confidence.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida inaugurated the event by releasing colourful balloons. Parida stated that the State Government is committed to ensuring the rights of all children and providing equal opportunities regardless of background.
Minister for Rural Development, Panchayati Raj, and Drinking Water Rabi Narayan Naik attended as a guest of honour. Naik commended the department for creating an inclusive platform to discover talent in remote areas.
The festival includes a march-past by district-level winners and various competitions such as 100-metre and 200-metre sprints, long jump, relay races, football, chess, and carrom. Friendly matches and recreational activities are also scheduled.
Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Department of Women and Child Development Dr Mrunalini Darswal emphasised blending protection, creativity, and fitness into child welfare. Monisha Banerjee, Director of the Department of Women and Child Development and OSCPS, delivered the vote of thanks.