During the ceremony, the Chief Minister also felicitated Samarthanam- CABI officials and the entire champion squad, including Dr.Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, Chairman, Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and Founder & Managing Trustee, Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled.
The following dignitaries were present and extended their support:
Dr. M. C. Sudhakar, Hon’ble Minister of Higher Education of Karnataka — who warmly appreciated Samathanam’s work and the team’s achievement Smt. Lakshmi Hebbalkar, Hon’ble Minister of Women and Child Development, Disabled and Senior Citizens Empowerment of Karnataka — who also promised job opportunities through.
HC Mahadevappa Hon’ble Minister of Social Welfare Government of Karnataka was also present.In addition to the special recognition for the Karnataka players, the remaining team members will receive ₹2 lakhs each, reinforcing the State’s admiration for the entire squad's contribution.
This announcement follows the ₹1 lakh per player contribution by Chintals, made immediately after India’s triumph in Colombo on November 23rd. The Chief Minister’s declaration stands as the next significant honour celebrating the team’s world title win.
Speaking with great pride, Shri Siddaramaiah congratulated the team and expressed immense joy that *three Kannadigas—Captain Deepika, Kavya V, and Kavya NR were integral to India’s world championship victory. Calling it “a proud moment for Karnataka to have a Kannadiga leading the Indian team,” he praised the players’ grit, resilience, and exemplary leadership that inspired the nation.
Dr.Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar expressed his gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister and his cabinet colleagues of the Government of Karnataka, stating, “We express our heartfelt gratitude for this magnanimous recognition. Their support reflects a deep commitment to empowering cricketers with disabilities and strengthening the ecosystem of blind cricket in India. This encouragement will inspire countless young girls to dream fearlessly and pursue the sport with confidence.
