Sports Activities at EMRS Hubbi Kotranka under NESTS, Ministry of Tribal Affairs Eklavya Model Residential School (EMRS) Hubbi Kotranka, operating under the National Education Society for Tribal Students (NESTS), Ministry of Tribal Affairs, is dedicated to the holistic development of tribal students by integrating academics, culture, and sports. Recognizing the vital role of sports in shaping character, enhancing health, and fostering teamwork, the school places significant emphasis on promoting diverse sports activities as a key part of its curriculum. At EMRS Hubbi Kotranka, sports activities are structured to encourage participation from all students, regardless of skill level. Regularly conducted sports include football, volleyball, kabaddi, kho-kho, badminton, athletics (track and field events), and indigenous games that resonate with the cultural heritage of the region. These activities not only enhance students’ physical fitness but also help in instilling values such as discipline, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Inter-house sports competitions are an integral part of the school calendar. These competitions, organized throughout the academic year, provide an opportunity for students to develop team spirit and leadership skills while fostering healthy competition. Events such as annual sports meets and athletic tournaments witness enthusiastic participation from all houses, with students competing in track events (100m, 200m, relay races), field events (long jump, shot put, discus throw), and team sports like football, volleyball, and kabaddi. Winners are recognized with medals, certificates, and trophies, encouraging consistent participation and excellence. In addition to regular sports activities, EMRS Hubbi Kotranka provides specialized coaching sessions to identify and nurture talented athletes. Experienced coaches and physical education teachers work closely with students, helping them refine their techniques and prepare for higher-level competitions. Selected students are given the opportunity to represent the school in district, state, and national-level tournaments, bringing pride to the institution and the local tribal community. The school has made significant efforts to ensure that adequate sports infrastructure is available to support these activities. Facilities include a well-maintained football field, volleyball and badminton courts, kabaddi and kho-kho grounds, and a 200-meter running track. The school also provides necessary sports equipment such as footballs, volleyballs, rackets, nets, and athletic gear. Safety measures are ensured, and first-aid kits are always available during sports activities to manage any unforeseen injuries. An important focus of EMRS Hubbi Kotranka is the preservation and promotion of indigenous tribal sports. Traditional games like gilli-danda, tug of war, and local variations of kabaddi and kho-kho are incorporated into the sports curriculum, ensuring that students stay connected to their cultural roots while gaining physical fitness. The promotion of sports aligns with the larger vision of NESTS, which seeks to empower tribal youth through holistic education, fostering not only academic achievement but also physical, emotional, and social well-being. Through sports, students gain confidence, develop interpersonal skills, and learn to handle victory and defeat gracefully — all essential life skills. Overall, sports activities at EMRS Hubbi Kotranka create an inclusive and vibrant environment that nurtures young talent, builds community spirit, and contributes to the overall personality development of tribal students. The school continues to expand its sports programs to ensure that every student can explore their potential and achieve excellence both on and off the field.