When 20-year-old Anekha Devi of Machhedi village in Kathua district was named in the Indian squad for the inaugural Women’s Blind T20 World Cup, it was more than just an individual triumph. It is the story of a young girl from a remote hamlet, born with B2-level visual impairment, who dared to dream beyond the boundaries of her modest background. The daughter of a daily wager and the eldest among four siblings, Anekha’s journey from a kachha house in the mountains to Team India epitomises resilience, perseverance and sheer determination. Her achievements speak volumes. Before cricket entered her life, Anekha had already carved a name in judo, representing Jammu and Kashmir five times at the national level and returning with gold medals on each occasion. Switching to cricket only a year ago, she quickly rose through the ranks, first representing Delhi’s Blind Women’s Team and then catching the attention of national selectors. Today, she stands as the sole representative from North India in the 16-member Indian squad.
But her journey also underlines a deeper concern-the glaring absence of institutional support. Despite her accolades in judo and now cricket, the Union Territory Government of Jammu and Kashmir has done precious little to recognise or support her. No financial assistance, no job, no infrastructural backing-Anekha’s rise has been powered solely by family support and the guidance of a few dedicated individuals associated with blind cricket. This neglect is a damning indictment of a system that often celebrates success only after it has been achieved, while offering little to nurture it.
At the very least, Anekha deserves a respectable job that ensures her sustenance and lends stability to her family. Beyond the Government, PSUs, banks and corporate houses must also come forward. Their intervention can not only secure her future but also send a powerful message about inclusivity and recognition for specially abled athletes. Anekha has already done her part; now it is time for the Government and society to do theirs. Supporting her is not charity; it is an investment in inspiration, one that will encourage countless other girls from the margins to believe that no dream is too distant.
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