CM Nayab Singh Saini Honors Cricketer Shafali Verma with ₹1.5 Crore and Grade-A Certificate

Chandigarh, November 12: Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini today honored Indian women’s cricket team star Shafali Verma with a cheque of ₹1.5 crore and a Grade-A gradation certificate for her outstanding performance in the 2025 World Cup. The Haryana State Commission for Women also appointed Shafali Verma as its brand ambassador.

The felicitation ceremony took place at Sant Kabir Kutir, the Chief Minister’s residence in Chandigarh. Urban Local Bodies Minister Vipul Goel, along with Shafali’s grandfather, father, and brother, were also present at the occasion. The Chief Minister presented her with a memento and a shawl as a token of appreciation.

CM Saini congratulated Shafali and her family, saying that Haryana has become a hub of young talent and its daughters continue to make the nation proud on international platforms. He praised Shafali for playing a pivotal role in India’s World Cup final victory, calling her success a proud moment for the entire state and nation.

“Shafali Verma has not only brought honor to her family but also to Haryana and the country,” said the Chief Minister. “She stands as an inspiration for the youth across India. The state government is committed to encouraging sports talent through various initiatives. Nearly 2,000 sports nurseries have been opened in Haryana to nurture children from the grassroots level and provide them with opportunities to excel.”

CM Saini further stated that the state government is also promoting youth awareness through events such as marathons and cyclothons to inspire discipline and discourage substance abuse among the youth.

Expressing her gratitude, Shafali Verma said, “We are extremely happy to have won the World Cup. This victory is not just ours—it belongs to all women cricketers. The soil of Haryana is full of sporting spirit, and people here have always supported sports wholeheartedly.”

She added, “Meeting the Chief Minister has boosted my confidence. I urge all young people to work hard and believe in themselves. With dedication and perseverance, one can achieve their goals and make their parents proud.”

The ceremony was also attended by Sports Department Principal Secretary Navdeep Singh Virk, Director General Sanjeev Verma, and other senior officials along with Shafali’s family members.