Union Minister for Women and Child Development Annpurna Devi felicitated the Indian Women’s Cricket Team for the Blind in New Delhi after their historic victory at the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind 2025. The undefeated champions were hailed as symbols of courage, inclusion and “Naya Bharat” aspiration.
The Ministry of Women and Child Development hosted a special felicitation ceremony to honour the team that clinched the first-ever Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind, held in November 2025. Annpurna Devi praised the players’ resilience and said their journey embodies the spirit of “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao” and a Viksit Bharat built on equal opportunity.
Former Union Minister Meenakshi Lekhi, who chaired the World Organizing Committee for the SBI 1st Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind, also lauded the team for breaking stereotypes and inspiring girls with disabilities across India.
On-field heroics and inspiring stories
Led by captain Deepika T. C. and vice-captain Ganga S. Kadam, India went unbeaten through the tournament, beating Nepal by seven wickets in a high-energy final in Colombo on 23 November 2025. India restricted Nepal to 114/5 before chasing the target in just 12.1 overs.
Standout performers included Phula Saren, who scored a match-winning 44 off 27 balls in the final, and captain Deepika, whose earlier 91 off 58 balls against Australia became a tournament highlight. Teenager Karuna Pangi Kumari and youngster Durga Yevle were singled out as examples of grit and rising talent from small-town India.
Larger message of inclusion
Annpurna Devi underlined that the team’s success is a milestone for women’s blind cricket and for India’s broader push toward gender equality and disability inclusion in sports. Officials from the Cricket Association for the Blind in India and partner organisations noted that the victory is already encouraging more visually impaired girls to take up cricket.
Key highlights
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Union Minister Annpurna Devi felicitates Indian Women’s Blind Cricket Team in New Delhi.
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Team won the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup for the Blind 2025, remaining undefeated.
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India beat Nepal by seven wickets in the Colombo final, chasing 114 in 12.1 overs.
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Star performances from Phula Saren, Deepika T. C., Karuna Pangi Kumari and Durga Yevle.
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Leaders highlight links to “Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao”, disability inclusion and a Viksit Bharat vision.
Sources: Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Women & Child Development posts, UNI, BBC News, ANI reports, social media posts from WCD Ministry and support organisations