*When the thread of hope faltered… Chief Minister became support: Chief Minister’s help became the ladder of Shalu’s dreams*
“Daughter, you move forward… We are all with you” – Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai
*Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai congratulated international softball player Shalu Daharia on a video call*
*Sensitive initiative of Chief Minister Shri Sai: Provided financial assistance of ₹1.70 lakh for participation in the Asia Youth Softball Championship*
Raipur, June 22, 2025/ The smile on the face of Shalu Daharia, a daughter of Chhattisgarh and a softball player who has represented the state at the national level 12 times, lit up when Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai himself video-called her not only to congratulate her, but also to provide the necessary financial assistance to fulfill her dream.
Shalu Daharia has been selected in the Indian team for the Asia Youth Softball Championship to be held in Xian, China from July 14 to 20, 2025. Only two female players have been selected from Chhattisgarh for this open tournament, including Shalu Daharia. But the required fee of ₹1.70 lakh for participation in this international tournament had become a major obstacle for her.
Shalu, who comes from a financially ordinary family, has a father who is a private security guard and a mother who runs a small beauty parlor. Despite this, Shalu started playing softball from the eighth grade and has represented the state at the national level 12 times, including a gold medal.
Chief Minister Shri Sai said to Shalu Daharia on a video call, “Daughter, you move forward… We are all with you. Chhattisgarh is proud of you. Play well, my best wishes are with you. Make the country and the state proud.”
The Chief Minister also said that the state government not only encourages daughters, but is also always ready to give wings to their dreams when needed.
*This initiative became an example of sensitivity*
Acting promptly on the instructions of Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Dev Sai, Janjgir Champa Collector Shri Janmejay Mahobe handed over a check of ₹1.70 lakh to Shalu and wished her the best for the competition.
Shalu’s mother, Smt. Alka Daharia, while expressing her gratitude to Chief Minister Shri Sai, said that due to the sensitive initiative and financial assistance of the Chief Minister, my daughter is getting the opportunity to participate in the international competition.
This initiative of Chief Minister Shri Sai shows that the government is not limited to just announcing schemes, but is a companion who holds hands and stands by in times of need. The state government is committed to realizing the dreams of daughters.