Often it is seen parents consider sports as merely a waste of time. They would rather their children devote their time entirely to studies. Many a sports talent gets wasted because of such attitudes, as they get discouraged to pursue their passion citing career or academic success in life.
However, two sisters from a remote village in Jharkhand is out to prove it all wrong, as they are getting ahead in life because of sports. Now they are all set to become IPS officers. Ms. Sarojini Lakda and Almeda Lakda from Mahuadanr, (Latehar district of Jharkhand state) were national level athletes and are serving in the state police. Recently, the state government has sent their names, along with 26 other DSPs, for promotion to IPS.
Indian Masterminds brings to you their success stories – how sports have played a major role in bringing them this far.
DIDN’T HAVE SHOES
Both sisters come from a very poor background. They did their 10th from St. Teresa School and 12th from St. Joseph. In an old interview, their principal from St. Teresa had told media that when they started to participate in athletics tournaments, they didn’t even have shoes. And now the whole school is proud of them!
In 1986, they were selected as constables in police through sports quota. In 1991, they were promoted to Sub-Inspector and after that, there was no stopping. In 2008, they became DSP and in 2019, they became Additional Superintendent of Police (ASP). Ms. Sarojni is serving in Vigilance department while Ms. Almeda is in the wireless department of police.
WON SEVERAL MEDALS
Both sisters started athletics from the undivided Bihar. They participated in various state and national level tournaments. Whether it is 100 m, 200 m or 400 m race or relay, the duo has won medals in every category. Recognising their performances, both were awarded with jobs in police under the sports quota.
In an interview to media, the sisters have mentioned that sports have given all that they ever dreamt of in life and now they want other girls to come forward and play for their state and country and make everyone proud.
