• The initiative is a part of STAIRS national 'One India One Goal' program to promote grassroots sports development in Maharashtra

• District-level matches to begin this month

• Youth leader/ Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council, Shri Satyajeet Tambe, will drive the initiative in the state

Mumbai, September 24, 2024: STAIRS Foundation (The Society for Transformation, Inclusion, and Recognition through Sports), a National Sports Promotion Organisation recognised by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, is excited to announce the launch of its 'One Maharashtra One Goal' initiative, a part of the nationwide 'One India One Goal' program, aimed at fostering grassroots sports development and empowering young athletes across Maharashtra.

This initiative has been launched in collaboration with and under the esteemed leadership of Shri Satyajeet Tambe, a respected Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council and youth leader with an exceptional vision for the development of youth and sports, who has accepted the role of President of the Governing Council of STAIRS Foundation Maharashtra.

This landmark initiative will catalyse youth engagement in sports and contribute to Maharashtra’s growing reputation as a hub for sporting excellence. The 'One Maharashtra One Goal' program will be rolled out across all 36 state districts, culminating in the state-level finals likely to be scheduled in the second week of December 2024.

Shri Satyajeet Tambe, Member of the Maharashtra Legislative Council and President of the Governing Council of STAIRS Foundation Maharashtra, who has been actively involved in youth and sports development through his initiatives like Jai Hind Youth Clubs and 'Younnovation' centres, expressed his commitment to the program.

"I am deeply honoured to lead the 'One Maharashtra One Goal' initiative in collaboration with the STAIRS Foundation. Grassroots sports development is essential for nurturing the next generation of athletes. With Maharashtra’s rich sporting culture, this initiative can potentially transform lives and contribute to India’s Olympic aspirations as we bid for the Olympics. Through this initiative, we seek to instill values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience, preparing individuals not only for success in sports but also for success in life”, said Shri Satyajeet Tambe.

Shri Siddhartha Upadhyay, Founder and President of the STAIRS Foundation, expressed his enthusiasm for the Foundation’s expansion in Maharashtra under Shri Tambe's leadership. "STAIRS Foundation has always been committed to identifying and nurturing talent from the grassroots level. With Shri Satyajeet Tambe’s proven leadership and dedication to youth development, we are confident that Maharashtra will become a key state in our mission to create a robust sports culture in India. This partnership reflects our shared vision of creating a supportive environment that encourages participation, excellence, and inclusivity in sports across the nation," said Upadhyay.

Today, the STAIRS Foundation announced that district-level matches will begin in September 2024. Shri Satyajeet Tambe and Siddhartha Upadhyay jointly unveiled the ‘One Maharashtra One Goal’ torch, symbolising the spirit of unity and sporting excellence across the state. The organisation will soon announce notable athletes and influential personalities from Maharashtra as brand ambassadors for the program, further encouraging youth participation. Consequently, State Jerseys and other details will be announced.

Shri Satyajeet Tambe is a dynamic and enterprising leader from Maharashtra, India. A distinguished alumnus of Pune University and Harvard, he has excelled as an educator, entrepreneur, and statesman. Shri Tambe actively champions the causes of youth empowerment, urban development, and international relations. His endeavours are primarily centred on pioneering initiatives and fostering effective governance to enhance the well-being of the citizenry.

STAIRS is at the forefront of grassroots sports development across India, positively impacting over 25,000,000 lives. With a presence in 26 states and 480 districts and a network of 2500 coaches and volunteers, STAIRS is committed to advancing sports, education, health, and skill development for children throughout India.

About Stairs Foundation:

The Society for Transformation, Inclusion and Recognition through Sports (STAIRS) is a National Sports Promotion Organisation at the forefront of grassroots sports and youth development, since its establishment in 2000. STAIRS has been recognised with the Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar by the Hon’ble President of India for identifying and nurturing young talent nationwide. Committed to empowering India's youth through the transformative power of sports, STAIRS integrates sports with education, health, and skill development programs, with the core belief centred on ensuring that every child has the opportunity to play, learn, and thrive. Our goal is to unleash the boundless potential of children across India.