Telangana Crowned Champion at 4th National EMRS Sports Meet in Rourkela
Rourkela, November 17, 2025: The 4th National Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) Sports Meet concluded with fanfare at the Birsa Munda Athletics Stadium in Rourkela on Bhagwan Birsa Munda Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas. Telangana emerged as the overall champion, topping the medal tally and underlining the growing strength of sports among tribal students.
Telangana Tops Medal Table; Comprehensive Results
Telangana secured the Overall Championship with a tally of 230 medals (88 golds, 66 silvers, 76 bronzes) and 714 points. Chhattisgarh finished second with 162 medals and 468 points, while Madhya Pradesh took third place with 151 medals and 409 points. In individual events, Telangana also led the standings, and the state dominated the team events, collecting nine team medals and 35 points.
Organised by the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and hosted by the Odisha Model Tribal Education Society (OMTES), the meet drew EMRS contingents from across India. The closing ceremony was attended by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, Union Minister of Tribal Affairs Jual Oram, Commissioner Ajeet Kumar Srivastava (NESTS) and international sprinter Ms. Dutee Chand among other dignitaries.
Sporting Excellence and Talent Pathways
The meet showcased multi-disciplinary talent across athletics, team sports and indigenous events, reflecting the EMRS network’s emphasis on holistic development. Telangana’s strong showing — 82 golds in individual categories — signals successful talent identification and coaching at the grassroots level within tribal institutions.
Officials said the tournament aligns with national objectives such as Khelo India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to promote sports in rural and tribal regions, providing pathways for students to progress to state and national levels.
Cultural Programmes and Closing Ceremonies
The closing ceremony coincided with Bhagwan Birsa Munda Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas and featured traditional performances, including Odissi and the Dhemsa dance, a ceremonial torch-lowering and fireworks. EMRS students formally received dignitaries, performed a wave march and participated in flag-lowering rituals that blended sport with cultural pride.
Support, Funding and Future Roadmap
Speakers at the event highlighted continued investment in EMRS infrastructure, coaching and talent scouting as key drivers for future success. Commissioner Ajeet Kumar Srivastava praised athletes and coaches for nurturing a sports culture within tribal communities and reiterated the government’s commitment to expanding opportunities through NESTS and related schemes.
The meet also underscored the role of sports in social upliftment, leadership development and community cohesion among tribal youth.
Medal Tables – Quick Glance
Overall (Top 3): Telangana (230 medals, 714 points), Chhattisgarh (162 medals, 468 points), Madhya Pradesh (151 medals, 409 points).
Top Team Performers: Telangana led with 9 team medals; Odisha and Andhra Pradesh followed.
Voices from the Meet
Ms. Dutee Chand, who participated in the closing ceremony, congratulated the athletes and stressed the importance of consistent coaching and exposure. Local organisers thanked state governments, coaches and volunteers for mobilising young talent and creating a supportive competitive environment.
Further Information
For official releases and details on government schemes for tribal education and sports, readers can refer to the Press Information Bureau and Ministry of Tribal Affairs: