World Cup hero Deepti Sharma honoured by UP Police in Lucknow

NEW DELHI: Player of the Tournament in the Women’s ODI World Cup, Deepti Sharma — who has also joined the Uttar Pradesh Police as a DSP under the sports quota — was felicitated on Friday at the State Police Headquarters in Gomtinagar Extension.

Director General of Police (DGP) Rajeev Krishna honoured Sharma in the presence of senior officials and lauded her achievements on the global stage.

"Deepti Sharma has not only made the country proud but has also brought glory to Uttar Pradesh and the state police force. Her achievements inspire pride across the police fraternity," the DGP said.

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According to an official press statement, the DGP noted that India's cricketing journey — from the men's iconic 1983 World Cup win to the Indian women's team defeating seven-time champions Australia — has inspired young girls nationwide.

Sharma's success, he said, will further motivate emerging sportspersons.Krishna also emphasised the state government's initiatives to promote sports under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. He said several outstanding athletes have been recruited into the police force through the sports quota over the last four years. "International-level success demands discipline, hard work and strong willpower — qualities that Deepti has demonstrated consistently," he remarked.

Addressing the children of police personnel present at the event, the DGP encouraged them to pursue their interests with dedication and discipline. He also thanked Sharma's family for providing her with the support system required for excellence and extended his best wishes for her future.Speaking at the ceremony, Sharma said it was a moment of immense pride to address the gathering at the Police Headquarters. She described joining the Uttar Pradesh Police as a special milestone, adding that meeting senior officers and wearing the police uniform for the first time was an unforgettable experience.

Sharma said the recognition she has received nationwide following the World Cup triumph has deeply honoured her family. She credited her achievements to their unwavering support and made a special mention of her elder brother, Sumit Sharma, acknowledging the crucial role his guidance has played in her journey.She also expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath for implementing policies that support athletes through job opportunities and financial incentives.

Becoming a police officer, she said, has fulfilled a long-standing family dream.Senior officers, including DG Training Rajeev Sabharwal, DG Cyber Crime/CB-CID Vinod Kumar Singh, and ADG Law & Order Amitabh Yash, attended the event. Meanwhile, an official statement noted that Sharma also met Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath earlier in the day.At a separate briefing, Cabinet Minister Suresh Khanna said the state Cabinet passed additional resolutions congratulating the Indian women’s cricket team on its maiden World Cup triumph and extended a special commendation to Sharma for her significant contribution.