State government will extend full support to visually impaired players – Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Visually impaired women’s T-20 Cricket World Cup champions felicitated by the Chief Minister

Mumbai, Dec 2025 : Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis felicitated players of India’s visually impaired women’s T-20 cricket team for creating history on the global stage and winning the world championship title. He announced that the state government will extend every possible support to resolve challenges faced during training and will also provide financial assistance, employment opportunities, and necessary facilities to the players.

The felicitation ceremony was held at the Chief Minister’s official residence, Varsha, where members of the world champion team were honoured. Present on the occasion were Sports and Youth Welfare Commissioner Sheetal Teli-Ugale, team captain Deepika T.C., vice-captain and Maharashtra player Ganga Kadam, Cricket Association for the Blind in India Chairman K.G. Mahantesh, Sports Department Deputy Secretary Sunil Pandhare, District Sports Officer Suvarna Bartakke, and team members.

Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Fadnavis said that the players have made India proud on the world stage and honoured the national flag. The Indian team remained unbeaten throughout the tournament. In the final, the Indian women secured a decisive win, demonstrating their dominance in visually impaired cricket. With this victory, India has become the first women’s T-20 visually impaired world champions — a historic achievement. The success is the outcome of hard work, dedicated practice, and resilience in overcoming challenges. Each player carries a story of struggle, yet they continued training without giving up. The team has truly lived the line, “Those who try never fail.”

Responding to concerns raised by the team, the Chief Minister assured that the state government will provide complete assistance. Discussions will be held through sports authorities to arrange a permanent training ground and other required facilities. No financial or family difficulty should hinder their progress in sports, and the government will offer all necessary support, he added.

The Chief Minister said that the importance of sports and players in India is increasing, and the mindset of sports being an unstable career is changing. He added that although Ganga Kadam is from Maharashtra, every player present is a daughter of India, and the government will support all of them. He encouraged the team to continue performing strongly, assuring that the state and country stand firmly behind them.

World Cup brought home with determination – Mahantesh

Chairman Mahantesh said the players not only made India proud but also inspired society. Deepika and the entire team brought the World Cup to India with sheer determination. He urged that a permanent, accessible sports facility be established in Maharashtra for visually impaired athletes.

Fulfilled my father’s dream – Vice-captain Ganga Kadam

Vice-captain Ganga Kadam expressed her feelings, saying that meeting the Chief Minister has strengthened the confidence of the entire team. She shared that her father dreamed of seeing her excel in sports, but he passed away during her training period. Despite suggestions to stop playing, she resumed training just 13 days after his demise, calling it the toughest yet most significant decision of her life. She added that if provided with better facilities, grounds, and financial support, the team can achieve even more success for Maharashtra and India.

We will work hard; government must stand by us – Captain Deepika

Captain Deepika said that players shoulder family responsibilities along with sports, including household needs, medical care, education, and training. Therefore, regular financial support and housing facilities are essential. She said the team is ready to work hard and only needs support and opportunities.

Sports Commissioner Sheetal Teli-Ugale praised the players’ unwavering determination and hard work and said the team is a matter of immense pride for the state.