In remote villages of Dantewada, Chhattisgarh, the shadow of a troubled past and uncertain present lingers. But that's changing fast, thanks to the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation (STF) and the Mann Deshi Foundation. With the support of the district administration, they are turning vacant terrain into lively bastions of play, promising a hope-filled, sport-driven future for children. This initiative, detailed in a press release, is a beacon of change in a conflict-scarred region.

STF and Mann Deshi Foundation are launching the Maidan Cup Competition to provide disadvantaged children with a springboard for successful futures. Building 50 playgrounds in 50 villages is part of the children's play area initiative with the support of District Collectors Mayank Chaturvedi and Kunal Dudawat and local communities. The initiative is transforming empty, unutilized spaces into opportunities for growth for the region's youth.

For villagers living and surviving in a naxal-affected area, being involved in the sports industry and sports development provides a promising framework for their children's future development. The Maidan Cup competition will include over 10,000 children and support social development, with 40 percent girls benefiting the most, and in turn, advance gender equality and enhance the empowerment of young girls. The Maidan Cup (a sports initiative) has the potential to reduce the crime rate by over 20 percent in conflict-affected areas through sports while enhancing resilience and unity.

A Grassroots Movement

With the commitment of the villagers and stakeholders, the Maidan Cup is starting a grassroots movement in Dantewada. This initiative encourages the practice of physical activity, teamwork, and discipline while giving children a better way to spend their time in a region that is often looked upon as lawless and unstable. 

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🚨 A GREAT INITIATIVE BY SACHIN TENDULKAR FOUNDATION 🚨

STF India with Maidan Cup Initiative - 50 villages in Dantewada, Chhattisgarh are turning open spaces into playgrounds.

10,000+ Children can play, grow, and dream without limits. 🫡 pic.twitter.com/INZj5v7CHC

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) May 27, 2025

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This initiative is about much more than sport. It is a movement toward sustainability and also toward a new future, where young girls and boys, through the Maidan Cup, will shift the eyes of Dantewada from the past to a future that is full of opportunity, showing that - in the same environment where hope was dwindling - we can achieve hope and meaningful progress when we are given opportunities like the Maidan Cup moving forward as united groups of people.