Raipur, April 3 -- Six-time World Championship medallist Mary Kom and former India football captain Bhaichung Bhutia underlined the importance of grassroots investment and structured development pathways while addressing reporters at the Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 here on Friday.

For creating future champions, both the legendary sportspersons maintained that Indian families need to discourage children from indulging in more screen time and rather send them to playgrounds to experience various sports, according to a press release from the KITG 2026.

Bhutia, one of Indian football's most iconic figures, stressed that while initiatives like Khelo India Tribal Games (KIBG) are a strong starting point, long-term success hinges on strength...