Revitalising Sports for the Tribal Community
It is believed that participation in sports promotes essential social skills such as teamwork, communication, and respect, and instills discipline and goal-setting abilities that are valuable in various life aspects. They also serve as a powerful tool for cultural and community bonding, offering opportunities for cultural expression and unity. Furthermore, it is believed that participation in sports promotes essential social skills such as teamwork, communication, and respect, and instills discipline and goal-setting abilities that are valuable in various life aspects.
“Roots to Rise” is a transformative approach proposed by Atmashakti Trust that is designed to address critical issues by leveraging sports, especially reviving traditional games, cultural revival, promoting health and nutrition, and leadership development of young girls/women, thus creating lasting social impact at the grassroots level. On one level, improving nutrition and health along with mental health will be emphasized while on the other end, through sports the leadership and personality development, and decision-making skills of the young girls/women will be enhanced. This program seeks to address these issues by revitalising sports participation, promoting gender equality, improving health outcomes, and preserving tribal heritage, thus aligning with the Indian government’s Viksit Bharat -2047, an ambitious vision for India’s growth into a more developed nation by 2047.
The interventions are in alignment with the SDG 5 and 3. Particularly, according to SDG 5: “Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”, encourages balanced participation and has the capacity to promote gender equality. SDG 3: “Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages” aims to improve health and well-being at all levels. Further, by providing leadership opportunities and alternatives to early marriage, the approach supports the government programs of “Beti Bachao (Save the Girl Child)” and “Beti Padhao (Educate the Girl Child)” initiative in empowering girls and promoting gender equality.
It will empower women through Hockey, revive and promote traditional games, enhance physical and mental health, develop leadership and life skills in youth, promote gender equality and community engagement, and ensure sustainable growth through local partnerships.
The project’s success hinges on the collaboration of key stakeholders. Local Community Leaders and Elders will mobilise support and engagement for cultural and sports activities. Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) will be involved to manage resource allocation and governance. Women’s Self-Help Groups (SHGs) will empower young girls/women and drive health initiatives. ICDS and Aaganwadi centres will also be involved in nutrition and health activities. Youth Clubs and Associations will involve young people in sports and leadership training. Healthcare Workers provide health education, nutrition awareness, and screenings. Local Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) will assist with project implementation and grassroots mobilisation. This collective effort ensures effective cultural revitalization, gender equality, and enhanced health and wellness.