THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Jan 4: International footballer from Jharkhand and Prime Minister’s National Children’s Award recipient Anushka Kumari met Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Sunday. The Chief Minister congratulated her on her achievements in football, extended New Year wishes, and assured her of the state government’s full support for her sporting career.
‘Create a unique identity in the world through sports’
Encouraging the young footballer, Soren said, “In the new year, create a unique identity for yourself in the country and the world through your game. Many blessings from our side.”
He said the state has high expectations from Anushka and that she should focus only on her game, without worrying about resources.
Government committed to sports development
The Chief Minister said Jharkhand has immense sporting talent and the government is taking concrete steps to build a strong sports ecosystem in the state.
“Our government is nurturing sports talent and providing platforms for players to establish themselves at the national and international level,” he said.
Sports ground to be developed in Anushka’s village
Soren instructed the Ranchi district administration to develop a sports ground in Rukka village under Ormanjhi block, where Anushka lives.
He also directed officials to connect Anushka’s family with government welfare schemes, stating that no player’s talent should suffer due to financial constraints.
Journey marked by struggle and success
Anushka Kumari, popularly known as “The Goal Machine”, has carved out a unique identity in football despite financial hardships. Her father, Dilesh Munda, is disabled, while her mother works as a daily wage labourer. She has two brothers—one employed in a factory and the other pursuing studies.
National and international achievements
Anushka was honoured by President Droupadi Murmu with the Prime Minister’s National Children’s Award at Vigyan Bhavan, New Delhi, on December 26, 2025, during National Veer Bal Diwas.
She will represent India in the Asian Under-17 Football Championship in China in March. Earlier, she played a key role in India’s victory at the SAFF Under-17 Championship in Bhutan, scoring seven goals and winning the Player of the Tournament award. She was also part of the Indian team that finished runners-up at the SAFF Under-16 Championship in Nepal in 2024.
Currently, Anushka is undergoing training at the residential girls’ football academy in Hazaribagh and will appear for her Class 10 examinations this year.
