Chhattisgarh CM arranges funds for softball player Shalu Dahariya to take part in international event

IANS June 22, 2025 383 views

Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai stepped in to fund softball player Shalu Dahariya’s trip to China for the Women’s Asia Cup. Shalu, from a humble background, couldn’t afford the Rs 1.7 lakh needed for travel. Sai assured full support in a heartfelt video call, calling her the state’s pride. The district collector later handed her the cheque, fulfilling her dream.

"Daughter... you are the pride of Chhattisgarh. Don’t worry and get ready to leave." - CM Vishnu Deo Sai
Raipur, June 22: The proverb 'where there is a will, there is a way' became a reality for a Chhattisgarh-based Softball woman player Shalu Dahariya, who has been selected in the Indian team for Women's Softball Asia Cup, which will be held in China early next month.

Key Points

1

Shalu Dahariya selected for Indian Women’s Softball Asia Cup team

2

Financial constraints nearly halted her participation

3

CM Sai intervened with Rs 1.7 lakh support

4

District Collector Janmejay Mahobe handed the cheque

She was thrilled with happiness knowing that she has been included in Indian Women's team for Softball Championship scheduled between July 14 to 20 in China's Xi'an, but still there was uncertainty as her family could not afford the money required for travelling to China.

Shalu, who had started playing Softball since her early age, and has won more than a dozen awards, was upset because her parents could not afford to send her to China.

She needed Rs 1.7 lakh to participate in China, and this amount was not affordable to her parents.

Her father works as a security guard.

However, a phone call she received on Sunday morning, filled Shalu and her parents with joy again.

The phone call she received was from the Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, who assured Shalu that financial shortage won't be a hurdle now and assured her that she will go to China to participate in Women's Softball Asia Cup.

Talking to Shalu in a video phone call, Chief Minister Sai, said, "Daughter... you are the pride of Chhattisgarh. Don't worry and get ready to leave and participate in Softball Asia Cup in China. The government will pay whatever amount is needed for it. My best wishes to you."

The Chief Minister in statement also said that the Chhattisgarh government is committed to provide all possible help to youths.

"Our government not only encourages daughters to make their career, but also support them at every step," he added.

One hour later, Shalu received another phone call from Janjgir District Collector's office, and she was asked to reach the office.

Upon reaching there, Janjgir District Collector Janmejay Mahobe handed over a cheque of Rs 1.7 lakh to Shalu.

Shalu's family has expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Sai for providing financial support and encouragement.

"We are really thankful to our Chief Minister for his helping hand. We are also happy that he talked to us on phone call. Now, my daughter will live her dream," said Shalu's mother Alka Dahariya.

Reader Comments

R
Rahul K.
This is what true governance looks like! 👏 So proud of Shalu and kudos to CM Sai for stepping in. Our sportspersons need more such support systems. Hope she brings home the trophy! #BetiBachaoBetiPadhao in action.
P
Priya M.
Heartwarming story! But why does it take CM's intervention for basic sports funding? There should be a proper system to support talented athletes from humble backgrounds. Still, better late than never. All the best Shalu!
A
Amit S.
As someone from Chhattisgarh, I'm so proud! We have so much hidden talent in our state. More focus should be given to sports other than cricket. Softball, kabaddi, kho-kho - these need equal attention and funding.
N
Neha T.
Wonderful gesture but 1.7 lakh seems too much just for participation? Hope the government is transparent about how this money is being spent. Sports associations should have reasonable fee structures for players.
S
Sanjay P.
Shalu's story is inspiring! Her dedication despite financial struggles shows real passion. Hope this sets an example for other state governments to support grassroots athletes. Jai Hind! 🇮🇳
M
Meena R.
So happy for Shalu! But I wonder how many such talented players we're losing because they can't afford to participate. Need proper sports scholarships at district level. Hope other CMs take note of this model.

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