Jharkhand CM felicitates visually challenged cricketer

Golu Kumar, the only member of the wining team who hails from Jharkhand, was not recognised by the state. But on Wednesday, that wait was finally over, with chief minister Raghubar Das felicitating Kumar at the Booty basti locality of Ranchi in a colourful ceremony organised by residents.

Two years ago, the Indian cricket team for visually challenged had a triumphant return from South Africa, where they beat Pakistan in the final. On their return, Prime Minister Narendra Modi felicitated the team with a cash award of Rs 5 lakh to each player. The union sports ministry followed that up by honouring the players gifting them cheque for Rs 2 lakh each.

CM Raghubar Das felicitates visually challenged cricketer Golu Kumar in Ranchi on Wednesday. (Diwakar Prasad/HT Photo)

However, Golu Kumar, the only member of the wining team who hails from Jharkhand, was not recognised by the state. But on Wednesday, that wait was finally over, with chief minister Raghubar Das felicitating Kumar at the Booty basti locality of Ranchi in a colourful ceremony organised by residents.

At the felicitation ceremony, the chief minister assured all possible assistance to Golu to continue playing the sport and live a dignified life. He exhorted the youth to derive inspiration from Golu and make the state and nation proud. He invited children and youngsters present on the occasion to join the ‘Kamal Clubs’—a sports programme organised by the BJP in villages and towns to develop sporting abilities.

“Golu’s exploits in cricket could be a big motivation for scores of youth, especially the special and visually challenged not to give up hope,” Das said.

Blind since birth, Golu, formerly a student of St Michael Blind School, Ranchi had made it to the Indian team in the first selection trails in 2014.

He is presently studying in Government Boys’ Secondary School in Delhi and wishes to represent India once again.