Hyderabad: The government will continue CM Cup competitions as an ongoing programme to identify and nurture sports talent across Telangana, Sports and Youth Services Minister Vakiti Srihari said on Tuesday. The initiative aims to bring hidden talent into the mainstream through structured exposure.
He spoke at the closing ceremony of the second phase held at LB Indoor Stadium, where officials distributed prizes to state-level championship teams. The event marked the culmination of competitions conducted in multiple stages.
CM Cup competitions expand talent search across five levels
The minister said authorities conducted the event in two phases to identify talented sportspersons across the state. Moreover, he stated that the initiative would continue every year as a sustained process.
He said success in sports requires both government support and individual effort. Therefore, athletes must show dedication and perseverance to reach higher levels. He also urged young players to take inspiration from athletes such as Saina Nehwal.
Further, he said officials would provide special training in sports schools and academies for participants if required. This support, he noted, would help improve performance and competitiveness.
Sports Authority Chairman Shivasena Reddy said the competitions were designed to identify sports talent across Telangana. He added that authorities would continue the programme and encourage disciplined athletes.
State Government Sports Advisor A.P. Jitender Reddy said sports associations and various government departments contributed to the success of the event. Their coordination ensured smooth conduct across all levels.
Managing Director Sony Baladevi said around 5.4 lakh athletes registered online. Authorities are compiling this data to support future sports development.
Competitions were held at the village, mandal, assembly, district, and state levels. The combined Adilabad district team secured the overall championship. Rangareddy district finished second, while Karimnagar district placed third.
The minister, along with Sports Authority Chairman Shivasena Reddy, Saina Nehwal, and Sony Baladevi, presented trophies to the winners. Authorities also honoured government and private organisations that supported the event with mementoes.
Officials, coaches, Sports Authority staff, association representatives, and District Youth Services Officers from various districts attended the event.
🏆 CM Cup – A Continuous Yajna of Sporting Excellence 🔥
📍 LB Indoor Stadium, Hyderabad
👨💼 Sports Minister @Vakiti_srihari
💬 “CM Cup is a continuous effort to identify hidden sports gems in Telangana”🌟 Key Highlights:
🏅 State-level winners felicitated
👥 5.4 lakh+… pic.twitter.com/gpva53JdEE— IPRDepartment (@IPRTelangana) March 24, 2026