The Transformative Journey of Dantewada through the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation and Mann Deshi Foundation
CHHATTISGARH: In the remote corners of Dantewada, Chhattisgarh, where shadows of a dark past and volatile present loom over the villagers, Sachin Tendulkar Foundation (STF) and the Mann Deshi Foundation are ushering in a new dawn. Coordinated efforts, with support from the district administration, are helping shape a sports-empowered future for children, one maidan at a time.
Sachin Tendulkar Foundation (STF), committed to empowering children through sports, in partnership with the Mann Deshi Foundation, has introduced the Maidan Cup Competition, to give underprivileged children a platform to perform. For this competition, a total of 50 playgrounds across 50 participating villages across the Dantewada district are being carved out of barren lands. Already in action, the initiative is coming to fruition with active support from the District Collectors Mayank Chaturvedi, Kunal Dudawat, and the villagers.
For villagers long affected by naxalism, their children getting some scope and exposure for development through sports is a promising start in their overall stride towards a better future. Over 10,000 children are going to benefit from this initiative, with a projected 40% participation from girls, signalling a paradigm shift in girl child empowerment and gender equality. The broader impact of the Maidan Cup is aimed at reducing the crime rates in conflict zones by around 20% through sports programmes. With zeal and a unified spirit from all involved, including the villagers, a grassroots revolution is about to take shape in the conflict-ridden corners of Dantewada.
Through the Maidan Cup initiative, 50 villages in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh, are transforming open areas into lively playgrounds—secure places where more than 10,000 children can play, develop, and aspire without boundaries. This effort goes beyond merely constructing playgrounds. It’s about creating a future brimming with hope and possibilities, particularly for girls, who are increasingly taking to the field in unprecedented numbers.
Objectives of the Maidan Cup initiative:
- 10,000 children will benefit directly.
- 50 playgrounds are being created in 2 months
- 20% potential drop in crime rates
- 40% rise in girls’ participation in sports