The Assam Cabinet has officially approved the appointment of Simu Das, a standout member of the Indian women’s blind cricket team, as a physical instructor under the Directorate of Sports and Youth Welfare. Announced by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma on December 18, the decision honors Das for her pivotal role in securing India’s victory at the Women’s T20 Blind World Cup. This move marks a significant milestone in integrating disabled athletes into the state’s official sporting framework and providing them with long-term professional stability.
Das, a native of the Nagaon district, emerged as a central figure during the recent World Cup final against Nepal held in Colombo. As a B1-category player, she delivered a masterclass in all-round performance, scoring a commanding 86 runs and taking a vital wicket to help India clinch the title. Her contributions on the field were instrumental to the team’s success, and she was rightfully honored with the Player of the Match award for her decisive influence on the championship game.
This appointment follows a previous gesture of support from the state government, which had sanctioned Rs 10 lakh for the cricketer. Having been part of the squad that won the inaugural Blind Women’s T20 World Cup, Das’s inclusion in the Directorate of Sports is viewed as a major institutional step toward elevating the profile of blind cricket. Historically, this segment of the sport has faced limited public support and visibility, making the government’s recognition a transformative move for the status of disabled sports in the region.
The journey to international success has been defined by profound personal resilience for Das, whose rise was shaped by years of hardship. Born fully blind into a family facing severe financial distress, she navigated a childhood marked by housing instability and significant domestic responsibilities, including the care of a brother with multiple disabilities. Her path to the national team was forged through unwavering dedication and the support of specialized programs led by the Cricket Association for the Blind in India and the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled, which provided the training and education necessary to reach the elite level.
Beyond her individual accolades, Das’s rise and the subsequent backing from the Assam Government are being hailed as a potential turning point for disabled athletes across the country. Sporting officials and stakeholders believe this decision sets a critical precedent for long-term inclusion, improved funding pathways, and broader recognition for women with disabilities competing in mainstream sports. By providing a stable career for a champion who has traditionally remained on the margins, the state has signaled a shift that could encourage other regions to adopt stronger support systems for their own athletes.
