Team Goemkarponn
PANAJI: The Kabaddi tournament held at Barcem in Quepem under the Khel Mahotsav banner drew strong participation from local players and highlighted the growing push to promote traditional sports across Goa. Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs Ramesh Tawadkar addressed the gathering and spoke about the deeper value sports bring to society. He said sports help build discipline, leadership, and unity, and these qualities become powerful tools for social progress.
Tawadkar noted that Kabaddi holds a special place in rural and tribal communities, where it has long been more than a competitive game. He described it as a sport that mirrors courage, teamwork, and community bonding. He added that sports shape character and influence society in ways that extend beyond physical fitness. According to him, preserving traditional games is essential because they remain an important link to cultural identity.
As the minister responsible for Tribal Welfare, Tawadkar explained that the government has been giving focused attention to initiatives like Khel Mahotsav. The aim is to create opportunities for young athletes from remote and tribal regions and ensure they receive platforms to compete at the state and national levels. He said efforts are underway to improve access to modern facilities, coaching, and structured training so that promising talent can develop without barriers.
The tournament created a lively atmosphere in Barcem, with enthusiastic support from residents who turned up in large numbers to cheer for the teams. The strong response reflected the growing interest among youth to participate in traditional sports when given the right encouragement and exposure.
Several local leaders attended the event, including South Goa BJP President Prabhakar Gaonkar, Quepem BJP Mandal President Krupesh Velip, Barcem Panchayat Sarpanch Shanu Velip, and other panchayat members. Their presence reinforced the broader community support for nurturing sports at the grassroots level.
The event concluded with a shared sense of pride in the region’s sporting heritage and a renewed commitment to strengthening traditional games through structured programs and better facilities.
