Pawan Kalyan honors Indian women’s blind cricket team for World Cup victory

Indian women’s blind cricket team, who brought international glory by winning the World Cup, were felicitated by Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Friday at the camp office in Mangalagiri.

During the hour-long interaction with the players, coaches, and support staff, Pawan Kalyan praised their remarkable dedication and determination. He highlighted how the players overcame visual impairments to achieve their goals and set an inspiring example of courage and perseverance.

As part of the felicitation, the Deputy Chief Minister announced financial incentives and presented cheques to the team members. Each player received ₹5 lakh, while coaches and support staff were awarded ₹2 lakh each. In addition, winners were honored with traditional sarees, shawls, mementos, Kondapalli toys, and Araku coffee packets, showcasing special appreciation for their achievement.

Addressing the team, Pawan Kalyan said, “Winning the World Cup is a proud moment for the country. Your ability to turn your limitations into strengths is an inspiration for every Indian.” He also promised to appeal to Chief Ministers across the country to create dedicated training facilities for visually impaired cricketers.

The Deputy Chief Minister emphasized that the newly formed coalition government in Andhra Pradesh prioritizes sports development and assured the team that the concerns they raised would be brought to the attention of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.

Pawan Kalyan also highlighted the pride of having Andhra Pradesh’s own Deepika Pangi, the team captain, in the World Cup-winning squad. During the event, Deepika requested road facilities in her native village of Tambalhatti, Sri Sathya Sai district, while fellow player Karuna Kumari from Alluri Sitarama Raju district raised local infrastructure issues. Pawan Kalyan responded immediately, instructing the relevant officials to take prompt action.