Indian Women Hockey Icons Salima Tete and Nikki Pradhan to Get Homes in Ranchi
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Synopsis
Salima Tete and Nikki Pradhan, two prominent players from the Indian women's hockey team, are set to receive plots in Ranchi, fulfilling their dream of owning homes. This initiative by the Jharkhand government marks a significant step in recognizing their contributions to the sport.
Key Takeaways
- Salima Tete and Nikki Pradhan to receive homes in Ranchi.
- Initiative supported by the Jharkhand government.
- Both players overcame challenging backgrounds.
- Ceremony to be attended by Chief Minister Hemant Soren.
- Families of players will also be honored.
Ranchi, Jan 28 (NationPress) The aspiration of owning a proper pucca house is finally becoming a reality for Salima Tete, the captain of the Indian women's hockey team, and Nikki Pradhan, a prominent defender. Both athletes, who gained recognition while residing in kutcha houses, will soon possess their own residences in the upscale Harmu Housing Colony of Ranchi, courtesy of an initiative by the Jharkhand government.
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren will officially present the deed for the plots allocated to Salima and Nikki during a ceremony at the Project Building in Ranchi on Wednesday.
The government had previously provided similar assistance to sports icons like cricketer Mahendra Singh Dhoni and accomplished archer Deepika Kumari in the same locality.
Although the allocation of plots for Salima and Nikki was announced years ago, the process faced delays. Finally, the Jharkhand State Housing Board approved the proposal during its 74th meeting on August 14 last year, granting 3,750 square feet of land to each player.
Official sources indicate that all necessary documentation has now been finalized, with Salima receiving plot number 10B and Nikki acquiring plot number 10-A in the colony.
Salima Tete, originally from Barki Chhapar village in Simdega district, still has family members residing in a kutcha house. Recently, she managed to construct a small concrete structure near her family home. During the Tokyo Olympics 2023, her family did not even have a television to watch her compete, leading Chief Minister Soren to gift them a 43-inch smart TV and an inverter.
Nikki Pradhan’s story is equally motivating. Hailing from Hesal village in Khunti district, Nikki’s family struggled financially. Her father, a constable, earned a modest income, and as a child, Nikki had to assist her mother in the fields. She began her hockey journey using a stick made from bamboo peels, as her family could not afford proper equipment. Even now, her village home lacks a concrete roof.
The state government has also ensured that the families and coaches of Salima and Nikki will be recognized during the ceremony, honoring their contributions to the players' remarkable achievements.
