Chhattisgarh CM Provides Rs 1.7 Lakh Aid To Athlete For Softball Championship In China

Last Updated:June 23, 2025, 18:04 IST

Chhattisgarh CM's call to 17-year-old Shalu Dahariya, a national-level softball player, ensured her expenses for the Asia Youth Softball Championship in China were covered

Shalu Dahariya to represent India in Xi'an, China from July 14 to 20. (News18 Hindi)

In a moment that will forever be etched in the memory of 17-year-old Shalu Dahariya, a video call from Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai turned what seemed like an insurmountable hurdle into a milestone of hope. Shalu, a national-level softball player from Janjgir-Champa district, has earned a coveted spot in the Indian team for the Asia Youth Softball Championship, slated to be held in Xi’an, China from July 14 to 20. But while her talent opened international doors, it was a timely intervention from the highest level of government that ensured she could walk through them.

The daughter of a private security guard and a beauty parlour worker, Shalu’s journey has been one of resilience and quiet determination. Starting softball in Class 8, she has already represented Chhattisgarh in national championships a dozen times, clinching a gold medal along the way. Yet, when the opportunity to represent India arrived, the cost – Rs 1.70 lakh for international travel and preparation – stood like a wall in her path.

That wall crumbled when her story reached the ears of the Chief Minister.

In a surprise gesture, CM Sai reached out to Shalu directly via video call. His message was both heartfelt and firm. “Daughter, move forward fearlessly. We are all with you. Chhattisgarh is proud of you," the CM said. What followed was more than just words of encouragement; it was action. Acting swiftly on the Chief Minister’s instructions, Janjgir-Champa Collector Janmejay Mahobe personally handed over a cheque of Rs 1.70 lakh to Shalu, covering all her expenses for the international trip.

The emotional moment was not lost on Shalu and her mother, Alka Dahariya, who expressed deep gratitude toward the state leadership. “This support has not only eased our burden but renewed our belief that no dream is too big," said Alka with tears of joy.

Shalu’s story is now echoing across Chhattisgarh, inspiring countless young girls who dare to dream big in the face of financial constraints. It serves as a powerful reminder that when governments move beyond red tape and respond with empathy and urgency, they don’t just fund ambitions; they help rewrite destinies.

Location :

Chhattisgarh, India, India

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