IIT (ISM) sports officer becomes first woman from Jharkhand to receive Ashoka Award
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK Dhanbad, July 16: Dr. Anita Kumari, Physical Education and Sports Officer at the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian…
THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Dhanbad, July 16: Dr. Anita Kumari, Physical Education and Sports Officer at the Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines) (IIT-ISM) Dhanbad, will be conferred the Ashoka Award 2026 by the Charles Walters Council for Innovation & Research (CWCIR) at a ceremony scheduled for July 19 at the India Habitat Centre, New Delhi.
With the honour, Dr. Kumari is set to become the first woman Sports Officer from Jharkhand to receive the Ashoka Award, marking a significant milestone for the state’s sports fraternity and higher education sector.
Recognition for over two decades of service
A sports administrator, researcher and wellness advocate with more than 22 years of professional experience, Dr. Kumari has made significant contributions to sports development, physical education, youth empowerment and health promotion.
Her research, particularly on women’s health and the impact of physical inactivity on physical and physiological well-being, has been published in several national and international peer-reviewed journals.
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Strong academic and professional credentials
Dr. Kumari holds a Ph.D. in Physical Education, a Master’s degree in Physical Education, and has qualified the UGC-NET/JRF examination. She is also certified by the Yoga Certification Board (YCB) and has completed a certification programme in Yoga and Wellness from the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY), New Delhi.
From athlete to sports administrator
Before moving into sports administration, Dr. Kumari represented both her university and Jharkhand in several national and inter-university competitions. She won a medal at the All India Inter-University Meet in 2001, laying the foundation for a career dedicated to promoting sports and fitness.
A milestone for IIT-ISM and Jharkhand
The Ashoka Award recognises Dr. Kumari’s sustained commitment to excellence, innovation and leadership in sports and wellness. Her achievement is expected to bring recognition to IIT-ISM Dhanbad while inspiring aspiring athletes, sports professionals and young women across the country.
