Ranchi: Chief Minister of Jharkhand, Hemant Soren, met with rising international footballer Anushka Kumari, a recipient of the Prime Minister’s National Bal Award, on Sunday. During the meeting, the CM extended New Year greetings and congratulated Anushka for her remarkable performances in international football. He also presented her with a sports kit and assured her of the government’s full support to advance her career in sports.
Encouragement for Sporting Excellence
The Chief Minister praised Anushka’s achievements and encouraged her to continue excelling in football at the international level. “May this new year be a remarkable one for you. Shine on the global football stage and bring pride to Jharkhand and India,” he said. CM Soren assured her that the state government stands firmly behind sports talent, providing the necessary infrastructure and opportunities for players to achieve national and international recognition.
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Government Support for Sports Talent
CM Soren emphasized that Anushka should focus fully on her game without worries, as the government is committed to nurturing sports talent in Jharkhand. He highlighted ongoing initiatives to provide platforms for young athletes to develop and make a mark in the sporting world.
Development of Sports Infrastructure
The Chief Minister directed the Ranchi district administration to develop a sports ground in Anushka’s village, Rukka, Ormanjhi block, to encourage local sporting talent. He also instructed officials to connect her family to the government’s welfare schemes, ensuring that economic challenges do not hinder her or any athlete from reaching their potential.
Overcoming Challenges to Achieve Success
Anushka’s journey to international football has been marked by struggle and perseverance. Despite financial constraints at home, she pursued her passion for football with determination. Her father, Dilesh Munda, is differently-abled, while her mother works as a daily-wage laborer. She has two brothers, one working in a factory and the other continuing his studies.
Achievements and Recognition
Anushka has earned widespread recognition for her talent. On December 26, 2025, she received the Prime Minister’s National Bal Award in New Delhi for her outstanding achievements in football. She was a key player in the Indian team that won the SAFF Under-17 Football Championship in Bhutan last year, scoring seven goals and earning the Player of the Tournament title. She also represented India in the Under-16 SAFF Football Championship in Nepal, where the team finished as runners-up.
Future Prospects
Currently training at the Residential Girls Football Training Centre in Hazaribagh, Anushka will represent India in the Asian Under-17 Football Championship in China this March. Alongside her sporting commitments, she is also preparing to appear for her Class 10 board exams this year.
CM Soren lauded Anushka’s achievements and assured that the Jharkhand government will continue to provide every possible support for her growth in sports, aiming to build a strong foundation for the next generation of athletes in the state.
