Governor and Chief Minister Meet Lacrosse Players

Udaipur – The historic double gold medal victory by the Indian men’s and women’s teams at the Asian Lacrosse Games held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, has brought immense pride to the nation. Players from Rajasthan’s tribal regions played a significant role in this remarkable achievement, and their dedication, discipline, and perseverance have become an inspiration for the country.

Following this historic success, efforts to honor and encourage these talented players have continued. In this regard, players and coaches from Rajasthan’s tribal areas, under the leadership of Divisional Commissioner Pragya Kevalramani, paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Rajasthan, Haribhau Bagde, at Lok Bhawan in Jaipur.

Governor Praises the Achievement

Governor Haribhau Bagde lauded the outstanding performance of the Indian team at the Asian Lacrosse Games. He stated that players from tribal regions have proven that with proper opportunities, resources, and guidance, they can bring glory to the nation on international platforms. He described their discipline, dedication, and sportsmanship as highly inspiring and said that this achievement would serve as a milestone for future generations. The Governor assured support for the overall development of lacrosse and extended his best wishes to the players for excelling in upcoming international competitions ahead of the Olympics.

Financial Support and Recognition

The players, coaches, and the Rajasthan Lacrosse Association expressed gratitude for the continued financial assistance extended to the sport from the Governor’s discretionary quota. On the occasion, a vibrant painting created by a tribal artist from the Banphool Tribal Design Studio under the Tribal Area Development Department was presented to the Governor, symbolizing the struggle and success of tribal players.

Screening of Inspirational Documentary

A 13-minute inspirational documentary film was also screened during the program. The film emotionally portrayed the journey of tribal players who, despite limited resources, worked tirelessly to reach the international level with financial support from Rajasthan State Mines and Minerals Limited. The presentation was highly appreciated by those present.

Dignitaries in Attendance

The ceremony was attended by several distinguished personalities, including Tribal Area Development Secretary (Senior IAS) Kunjilal Meena, Rajasthan State Sports Council President (IAS) Neeraj K. Pawan, Lok Bhawan Secretary (IAS) Dr. Prithviraj, Additional Commissioner Nishu Kumar Agnihotri, Rajasthan Lacrosse Association President Ashok Parnami, CEO Shahzad Khan, Treasurer Mahendra Singh, BDO Priyanka Meena, and other administrative and sports officials.

Meeting with the Chief Minister

Under the leadership of Ashok Parnami, the players also met Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma at his residence. The Chief Minister congratulated the players on their historic achievement, honored them by offering sweets, and stated that their success is a matter of pride not only for Rajasthan but for the entire country.

He assured the players that the state government would provide all possible support in terms of sports infrastructure, training, and facilities. Udaipur Rural MLA Phool Singh Meena was also present on the occasion.

First Government Lacrosse Academy Approved

The players expressed gratitude to the Rajasthan Government for approving India’s first government lacrosse academy in the state budget. They noted that this initiative will provide high-level training opportunities to players from tribal and rural areas. Additionally, construction of a lacrosse ground at Maharana Pratap Sports Village by the Udaipur Development Authority and the district administration is nearing completion, paving the way for hosting national and international competitions in the future.

High Spirits, Bigger Dreams

Following these inspiring meetings, recognition ceremonies, and continued government support, the morale of the players is at an all-time high. With renewed confidence and determination, they are now preparing for upcoming international competitions and major platforms such as the Olympics, aiming to repeat their golden success for India.

This achievement sends a powerful message—not only to the sporting community but also to youth from tribal societies—that with perseverance, dedication, and opportunity, no dream is unattainable.