Karnataka secured the top spot as overall champions at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 in Raipur, claiming 23 gold, 8 silver, and 7 bronze medals. Odisha followed closely in second place with 21 gold, 15 silver, and 21 bronze medals, while Jharkhand secured the third spot with 16 gold, 8 silver, and 11 bronze medals.
Chhattisgarh, finishing ninth in the medals tally with 3 gold, 10 silver, and 6 bronze medals, received praise from Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai for their remarkable performance at the event. The Chief Minister announced cash rewards for the medallists and even pledged additional incentives for those qualifying for the Olympics.
The Khelo India Tribal Games witnessed participants from 30 States and Union Territories competing in nine sports disciplines. Karnataka dominated the swimming events from the start, clinching 15 gold medals, and maintained their lead throughout the games, securing a total of 30 gold medals.
Deputy Chief Minister Arun Sao commended the successful organization of the Games and expressed plans for a larger-scale event in the future. Karnataka’s Manikanta L emerged as the most successful athlete with eight gold medals, while Odisha’s Anjali Munda and Karnataka’s Meghanjali shone in the women’s events.
In archery, Odisha and Jharkhand showcased strong performances, with Odisha excelling in athletics and swimming. The event highlighted the diverse talent across the country, with Maharashtra and Arunachal Pradesh securing fourth and fifth positions, respectively.
