In a moment of immense pride for Karnataka and the nation, the Governor of Karnataka, Thawar Chand Gehlot, on Wednesday, felicitated three women cricketers from the state—Deepika T.C. (captain of the Indian team), Kavya V., and Kavya N R.—who were part of the Indian team that triumphed in the 1st Women’s T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind.
Recognition of Excellence
The felicitation recognized their exceptional contribution to India’s historic World Cup triumph, a landmark achievement that has redefined women’s participation and excellence in disability sports. As a mark of appreciation and encouragement, the Hon’ble Governor presented a cash award of ₹51,000 each to the three players, honoring their dedication, perseverance, and sporting excellence.
National Acknowledgment
This recognition by the Governor follows the Indian women’s team receiving unprecedented national acknowledgment from the President of India, the Prime Minister, the Union Minister for Sports, several Union Ministers, and Chief Ministers of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Odisha, along with the Deputy Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, among other distinguished leaders. This underscores the sporting, social, and symbolic significance of the World Cup victory.
Contribution of Leadership
Also felicitated on the occasion was Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Founder & Trustee of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled and Chairman of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI). His visionary leadership has been instrumental in building structured, sustainable platforms for blind cricket in India and championing the participation and leadership of women in the sport. Under his stewardship, CABI successfully organized and hosted the SBI 1st Women’s T20 World Cup – Cricket for the Blind, bringing together six participating nations and setting a new global benchmark for inclusive women’s sport.
The Governor, a long-standing supporter of Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, has been closely associated with initiatives promoting inclusion, empowerment, and equal opportunity for persons with disabilities. His encouragement and continued engagement have played a vital role in strengthening the ecosystem for inclusive sports and leadership development.
Karnataka’s Sporting Legacy
The felicitation stands as a powerful affirmation of Karnataka’s contribution to India’s sporting excellence and reinforces the growing national commitment towards inclusion, equity, and recognition of cricketers with visual impairments.