Khelo India Tribal Games Day 8: Karnataka Extend Lead Through Talawar, Nagini; Odisha Surge in Athletics

Raipur, April 1: Karnataka tightened their grip at the top of the medal standings on Day 8 of the Khelo India Tribal Games (KITG) 2026 as Dasharath Talawar and Nagini clinched gold medals in athletics, while Odisha produced a strong four-gold performance to keep the pressure on.Karnataka March Ahead with 21 Golds

Karnataka continued their dominance, taking their gold tally to 21 medals with standout performances in athletics.

Dasharath Talawar led a 1-2 finish in the men's 10km race walk, clocking 45:13.85s, with teammate Darshan Bagadi finishing second. Meanwhile, Nagini dominated the women's 800m, winning gold with a time of 2:13.80s.

With this, Karnataka's overall tally reached 21 gold, 8 silver, and 7 bronze medals, maintaining a comfortable lead at the top.

Odisha Keep Pressure with Four Golds

Odisha emerged as the biggest challengers on the day, winning four gold medals in athletics:

1. Davanidhi Munda - Men's 800m
2. Roshan Khadia - Men's 400m hurdles
3. Dipa Kisan - Women's high jump
4. Dhanmati Xess - Women's javelin

Their strong showing took Odisha's tally to 17 gold medals, keeping them firmly in second place.

Jharkhand Add Two More Golds

Jharkhand continued their impressive run, adding two more gold medals:

• Shivani Kumar - Women's 400m hurdles
• Neha Xalxo - Women's 10km race walk

They now have nine gold medals, consolidating their position in the top three.

Gajendra Thakur Shines for Hosts

Chhattisgarh's Gajendra Thakur delivered a standout performance, winning silver in the men's 800m with a time of 1:53.82s.

"I had come for kabaddi trials... but coaches advised me to switch to track events. I am happy to get my first national-level medal at home," he said.

The hosts also secured a bronze in men's hockey and confirmed a medal in football by reaching the final.

Football Finals Take Shape

In boys' football semi-finals, Chhattisgarh defeated Arunachal Pradesh 3-2 in a thrilling contest, while West Bengal beat Goa 5-2. Chhattisgarh will now face West Bengal in the final, ensuring another medal for the hosts.

Medal Tally After Day 8

1. Karnataka - 21 gold (leaders)
2. Odisha - 17 gold (second)
3. Jharkhand - 9 gold (third)

The race for second place remains intense, but Karnataka's lead looks increasingly decisive heading into the final stages.

Athletics Driving the Final Phase

With athletics contributing the bulk of medals at this stage, Day 8 highlighted the depth of talent across states, especially from Odisha and Jharkhand.

As the Games near their conclusion, the battle for podium finishes is intensifying, with multiple states making late pushes in the medal tally.

Khelo India Tribal Games 2026 Day 8 - Complete Results