Sachin Bhargo, a promising Kho Kho player, has been honoured with the Vikram Award - 2023 by the Madhya Pradesh Government. This accolade recognises his exceptional contributions to the sport both nationally and internationally.
Bhargo was part of India's team at the first-ever Kho Kho World Cup in 2025. He was among 11 athletes receiving this award from Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav during the Shikhar Khel Alankaran Samaroh at Ravindra Bhavan, Bhopal on August 5.

The Vikram Award, established on May 15, 1990, is the highest sporting honour in Madhya Pradesh. It includes a citation and a cash prize of ₹2 lakh for athletes who excel in senior-level national and international competitions.
Bhargo hails from Dewas, Madhya Pradesh, and is currently employed with the Income Tax Department in Mumbai through the Sports Quota. He secured this position in 2024 due to his achievements in Kho Kho. Bhargo attributes his success to his coach Praveen Sangte, KKFI leaders Shri Sudhanshu Mittal and Dr. MS Tyagi, as well as his family's support.
"The efforts of KKFI President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal ji and Shri MS Tyagi ji in promoting Kho Kho are remarkable. It is because of their efforts that Kho Kho is now at par with any other. Kho Kho athletes now have both recognition and employment opportunities," said Bhargo.
KKFI President Shri Sudhanshu Mittal congratulated Bhargo, stating that "Kho Kho has been at the helm of transforming the lives of athletes. There are recognitions, awards, government jobs, and a lot more. Moreover, the respect that Kho Kho players are now commanding attracts many young players towards making a career in Kho Kho."
Dr. MS Tyagi, Chairman of Administration & Organisation at KKFI, highlighted how "the morale of Kho Kho athletes is truly unparalleled. Today, Kho Kho has evolved into a contemporary competitive sport enriched by sports science integration." This evolution makes it popular among Generation Z due to opportunities like government jobs and prestigious awards.
Over 3,000 players have found employment across various government sectors thanks to their involvement in Kho Kho. The sport has become a significant force for change in athletes' lives.
KKFI also offers several awards such as the Rani Laxmi Bai Award & Eklavya Award for seniors; Bharat Award & Ila Award for sub-juniors; and Abhimanyu Award & Janaki Award for juniors.
The Shikhar Khel Alankaran Samaroh for 2023 saw Madhya Pradesh Government honouring not only Vikram awardees but also Eklavya awardees along with Vishwamitra awardees and Lifetime Achievement recipients. Additionally, 82 medalists from the 38th National Games were recognised for their achievements.