Eight Women Footballers from Sukma Selected for Khelo India Academy, Raipur – A Proud Moment for the District

Raipur : Chhattisgarh’s Minister for Sports and Youth Welfare, Shri Tank Ram Verma, has extended his congratulations on the selection of eight women football players from Sukma district to the Khelo India Academy in Raipur, operated by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Welfare, Government of Chhattisgarh. This selection is seen as a proud achievement for the district and a strong step toward a promising future for its sports talent.

The selected players include Kicche Lalita (Polampalli), Madvi Pooja (Chintagufa), Sandhya Nag (Kokawada), Sharda Pradhani (Chipurpal), Lakshmi Sodhi (Karigundam, Chintagufa), Sodhi Koinde (Chintagufa), Mahi Kunjam (Korra), and Kicche Lakshmi (Polampalli). These young women hail from remote areas of Sukma and have reached this milestone through sheer hard work and determination.

Sports Officer Shri Veerupaksha Pauranik informed that the residential Khelo India Academy in Raipur will not only offer intensive sports training but also provide quality education, nutritious meals, sports gear, essential supplies, and opportunities to participate in national and international tournaments. As a fully residential setup, the academy will foster a disciplined and focused environment, enabling players to excel in both academics and sports.

The selection trials for the academy were held in April 2025 in Raipur, and this success is not only a matter of pride for Sukma district but also serves as a source of inspiration for other aspiring athletes from the region.