Maitri

Villages are known and cherished for nurturing a sense of closeness and mutual interactions. However, as digital tools become increasingly invasive in people’s lives, outdoor sports are losing importance. This shift not only impacts psychological and physical health but also weakens the foundation for building strong community bonds through shared moments of joy and playfulness.

Sports have the power to bring people together, fostering celebration, unity, and a collective spirit. A little joy and playfulness in life always go a long way.

Through Maitreyi – The Spirit of Sports, IRD is committed to revitalizing the culture of sports in rural communities by ensuring access to essential resources and opportunities.

Through the Maitri initiative, sports gear and equipment are provided to schools, youth clubs, and local communities to ensure that financial limitations do not prevent participation in physical activities. By supplying essential resources, the program promotes inclusivity, encourages regular engagement in sports, and supports the physical development and well-being of young learners.

The Maitri initiative actively encourages children and youth to reconnect with outdoor sports by developing engaging play spaces and organizing events that promote teamwork, physical activity, and healthy lifestyles. By fostering an environment that values active participation, the program aims to nurture social skills, camaraderie, and a lifelong appreciation for fitness and recreation.

The Maitri program promotes social cohesion by organizing inter-community tournaments and games that bring people together. These activities provide a platform to celebrate local talent, strengthen bonds across communities, and cultivate inclusive, supportive, and healthy environments where participants of all ages can engage, collaborate, and thrive.