THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, Jan 29: Chief Minister Hemant Soren officially handed over allotment papers for 3,750 square feet plots in Harmu Residential Colony, Ranchi, to Olympian hockey players Salima Tete and Nikki Pradhan. The event, held in the auditorium of the Jharkhand Ministry, honoured the two athletes for bringing glory to the state and the country through their achievements in hockey.
Fulfilling a long-standing promise, the state government recognized the contributions of these two players and made their dream of owning a home in Ranchi a reality. The Chief Minister presented them with documents for plots numbered 10(A) and 10(B) in the Harmu Residential Colony, earmarked for their housing construction.
“Our Daughters Have Proved Their Mettle”
Speaking at the event, Chief Minister Hemant Soren expressed his excitement, calling it a proud moment for the state.
“Our daughters have not only brought honour to Jharkhand but have also made the entire country proud with their talent and dedication,” he said.
He highlighted how, for decades, Jharkhand’s daughters have carved a unique identity for themselves across various fields, often achieving great success despite limited resources in tribal and backward regions.
State Government Fulfills Its Promise
Soren emphasized that his government had committed to providing land in Ranchi to Salima Tete and Nikki Pradhan, and today, that promise had been fulfilled. Along with the plots, he also announced that each player would receive ₹35 lakh under the state’s sports policy to help them build their homes.
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“While these star daughters have become financially independent over time, I remember visiting their villages during their early struggles. I saw their financial condition back then, and today, I am fulfilling the promise I made at that time,” he said.
He further stated that this recognition would serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for other young athletes in Jharkhand, motivating them to hone their skills and strive for excellence.
“Hard Work Always Pays Off”
The Chief Minister reiterated the value of perseverance, stating that there are no shortcuts to success. He urged the youth of Jharkhand to stay patient and work hard to achieve their goals.
A Better Sports Policy for Jharkhand
Acknowledging the remarkable performances of Jharkhand’s athletes over the years, Soren reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting and encouraging players through an improved sports policy. He noted that many states, despite having limited resources, have built strong identities through perseverance and struggle, and Jharkhand is no exception.
Salima Tete and Nikki Pradhan Express Gratitude
Both Salima Tete and Nikki Pradhan expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chief Minister.
Salima Tete shared her joy, saying:
“Today is a special day. The Chief Minister has fulfilled his promise. If you work with dedication, you will definitely achieve your goals.”
She also acknowledged the successful organization of the recent Women’s Hockey India League in Ranchi.
Nikki Pradhan recalled the moment when Soren first made the promise:
“After my first Olympic participation in 2021, the Chief Minister had promised us land in this very auditorium. Today, he has fulfilled that promise. My dream of owning a house in Ranchi is finally coming true. Heartfelt thanks to the Chief Minister!”
Dignitaries Present at the Event
The event was attended by several key figures, including Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports, and Youth Affairs Minister Sudivya Kumar, MLAs Rajesh Kachhap and Bhushan Bada, Chief Secretary Alka Tiwari, Principal Secretary of Urban Development and Housing Department Sunil Kumar, and Secretary of Tourism, Art, Culture, Sports, and Youth Affairs Manoj Kumar, along with other dignitaries.
