The state government is working with commitment to promote sports talent: CM Vishnudev Sai
Raipur. “Chhattisgarh is my birthplace and my work place. The soil, the people, the education and values of this place have given me the strength to achieve this position.” This was said by Akanksha Satyavanshi, physiotherapist of the World Cup winning Indian women’s cricket team and daughter of Chhattisgarh, who shared her happiness during a courtesy meeting with Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai at the Chief Minister’s residence today.
Wishing Akanksha well, Chief Minister Sai said, “Your success is the success of the entire Chhattisgarh. The participation of a daughter of Chhattisgarh in the World Cup campaign of the women’s cricket team has made the people of the state feel that we are all partners in this victory.” On this occasion, the Chief Minister honored Akanksha by presenting her a medal and a memento. Chief Minister Vishnu Dev Sai, praising Akanksha Satyavanshi’s achievement, said, “You have proven that the daughters of Chhattisgarh are not lagging behind in any field. Your success will inspire daughters of generations to come.” He stated that the state government is committed to expanding opportunities in sports, education, and skill development so that more youth can bring glory to Chhattisgarh at the national and international levels. The Chief Minister stated that the state government is reinstating the Sports Decoration Award. Additionally, special incentives will be provided to athletes who participate in the Olympics and win medals.
The Chief Minister stated that events like the “Bastar Olympics” are being continuously encouraged to provide a platform to sports talent from remote areas of the state. The government’s goal is to provide international-level sports facilities to its athletes, for which several concrete steps are being taken.
Physiotherapist Akanksha Satyavanshi shared the joy of this historic victory with the Chief Minister, saying, “Winning the World Cup is not only a success for the Indian women’s team but also an honor for Chhattisgarh. I am proud to have been able to contribute to this victory while representing my state.” She explained that although she was not an active player on the field, she was responsible for maintaining the players’ mental and physical health, fitness, and recovery.
“I always stood like a rock with my team. It is a matter of pride for me that I accompanied the team on its journey to victory.” Sharing her experiences, Akanksha said, “If the goal is true and the hard work is done honestly, nothing can stop you from moving forward—all you need is consistent effort and confidence.” On this occasion, Akanksha presented the Chief Minister with an Indian women’s team jersey and shared some interesting memories from the World Cup campaign.
Regular routine, balanced diet, and yoga—the mantra for staying fit
Physiotherapist Akanksha discussed the players’ fitness in detail with the Chief Minister. Referring to the women’s cricket team’s meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, he said, “The Prime Minister always says that sports should be a part of life, and this is inspiring for all of us. His teachings on fitness inspire everyone to live a healthy and energetic life.”
Akanksha asked the Chief Minister about the secret of his fitness, to which Chief Minister Sai replied, “We are all inspired by the Prime Minister. We learn from his activism, energy, and discipline. A balanced diet, yoga, and a regular routine are my mantras for staying fit.” It is noteworthy that Chhattisgarh’s daughter, Akanksha Satyavanshi, accompanied the Indian women’s cricket team as a physiotherapist and sports science expert during the Indian women’s cricket team’s World Cup victory, playing a significant role in maintaining the players’ fitness and mental strength. As a physiotherapist and sports science expert, Akanksha Satyavanshi has made significant contributions to maintaining the players’ fitness, recovery, and performance at the highest levels.
In recognition of this achievement, Chief Minister Sai has announced an honorarium of ₹10 lakh to Akanksha. Born in Durg, Akanksha’s family resides in Raipur, while her ancestral village is Kawardha. She completed her schooling and Bachelor’s in Physiotherapy in Chhattisgarh, and earned her Master’s degree from Cuttack. During her studies, her inclination towards sports and physiology became evident. In 2019, Akanksha began her professional career as a physiotherapist with the Chhattisgarh State Cricket Team (CSCS). In just six years, she has earned a special recognition in the national sports arena through her dedication, hard work, and professionalism. In 2022, she was included in the Indian Under-19 Women’s Cricket Team’s World Cup campaign. During this time, she focused on the players’ fitness management, recovery sessions, mental toughness, and energy balance, resulting in the team’s outstanding performance.
