Are Hazaribagh’s Daughters Sprinting Towards Olympic Glory?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Asmita Athletics League empowers young girls in sports.
- Training opportunities are now being provided to girls in rural areas.
- Government initiatives aim to create equality in sports.
- Upcoming 2036 Olympics inspires athletes nationwide.
- Winners gain confidence through recognition and support.
Hazaribagh, Dec 2 (NationPress) The strength of India’s daughters is evident across various domains—education, IT, business, and sports. The young girls from Jharkhand’s Hazaribagh are a prime example of this.
With unwavering ambition and aspirations, these girls are dedicating themselves to a singular purpose: to don the Indian jersey, participate in the Olympics, and bring home medals for their nation.
The Asmita Athletics League serves as a crucial platform for realizing this dream. Sponsored by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, the Sports Authority of India (SAI), and the Athletics Federation of India, this league is specifically tailored for girls aged 14 and 16. Its key objective is to provide talented girls from rural areas the same opportunities that boys have traditionally received.
Event winners receive medals and certificates, which not only boosts their confidence but also inspires them to aim higher.
India has nominated Ahmedabad as the potential host for the 2036 Olympics to the International Olympic Committee. This announcement has ignited a fresh wave of enthusiasm among young girls nationwide.
Many declare, “If the Olympics are to be held in our country in 2036, why shouldn’t we be the ones competing?” This conviction drives them to train with increased intensity.
The excitement was palpable during the Asmita Athletics League 2025–26 at the Curzon Ground in Hazaribagh, where girls in the U-14 and U-16 categories showcased remarkable skills in events like sprints, javelin throw, high jump, and long jump.
Saroj Kumar Yadav, District Sports Coordinator, informed IANS that a Memorandum of Understanding has been established between the Athletics Federation of India and the Government of India. This partnership aims to cultivate athletes at the grassroots level, identifying talented girls from local competitions, training them under the Khelo India initiative, and preparing them for future Olympic challenges.
Ajit Kumar, District Sports President, remarked that this initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Vision 2036.
“Historically, competitions focused on boys,” he stated. “Now, the government is shifting this paradigm. It is crucial that girls from rural backgrounds receive equivalent opportunities as their urban counterparts. The Asmita League is their supportive wind.”
The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports is organizing similar events across nearly 300 districts in India, with the aim of spotting talent, providing training, and equipping young girls for significant national and international events.
Participants expressed their excitement. Varsha Kumari, who clinched gold medals in both high jump and long jump, shared her joy:
“There are countless events here. Previously, girls rarely had such chances, but now we are being supported. We are even gearing up for the Olympics.”
Another contestant, Muskan Kumari, conveyed her delight:
“The training here feels akin to preparing for the Olympics. Earlier, most competitions were male-centric, but this time, a significant event was organized for girls. We are thrilled to finally have a full opportunity.”