by Ashis Sinha
Ranchi: Meet, Sukhmani Tirki, a resilient widow from Karanj Toli, Bedo Village, Ranchi, has turned her life of hardship into a tale of triumph, propelling her son to wrestling glory despite the odds.
In the sweltering heat of Ranchi, Sukhmani tirelessly cleans the stands of the Hockey Stadium in Morhabadi. Her eyes, etched with fatigue and determination, reflect the relentless struggle she endured following the untimely death of her husband, Vishnu Kachhap. Raising four children as a daily wage laborer, she faced countless challenges.
Despite these hardships, Sukhmani nurtured a dream: to see her children succeed as athletes rather than follow her path as laborers. Financial constraints and the early loss of her husband made this dream seem distant, but her resolve never wavered.
A glimmer of hope appeared when her elder son, Aman Kachhap, learned about an opportunity at the Jharkhand State Sports Promotion Society (JSSPS), a joint initiative by Central Coalfields Limited (CCL) and the Jharkhand Government that offers free education and training to young athletes. Seizing this lifeline, Sukhmani encouraged her sons, Vikas and Ankit, to participate in the trials.
“CCL Initiative Transforms Dreams into Reality; Vikas Kachhap is the bronze medalist of Under-17 Wrestling”
The journey was arduous, testing the family’s endurance. Each practice session and sacrifice underscored Sukhmani’s unwavering devotion to her children’s future. Eventually, both Vikas and Ankit were selected for JSSPS, Ranchi, bringing immense joy and hope to their mother.
The academy provided comprehensive support, including training, education, and nutritious food. Inspired by his father’s blessings and his mother’s sacrifices, Vikas trained tirelessly. His efforts paid off when he won the bronze medal in the Under-17 Wrestling, 48kg category in Oman, Jordan.
This triumph brought tears of pride and joy to Sukhmani’s eyes. Her journey, filled with struggles and unwavering support, had transformed her son into a successful wrestler. Vikas’ victory not only elevated their family but also brought glory to the nation.
Sukhmani credits the CCL family for her son’s success and acknowledges the critical role of JSSPS and its dedicated trainers—Bablu Kumar, Madhu Tirkey, and Rajiv Ranjan—who have represented India in numerous international competitions. Their guidance and training have been instrumental in Vikas’ achievements.
The story of Sukhmani Tirki is a testament to the power of dreams and the unbreakable spirit of a mother. It highlights the transformative impact of initiatives like JSSPS, which provide talented children from Jharkhand with opportunities to excel in sports and academics.
Under the leadership of CCL Chairman cum Managing Director Nilendu Kumar Singh, JSSPS continues to nurture and develop young athletes, bringing national and international accolades to India.
The CCL family extends its heartfelt congratulations to Vikas Kachhap and his family, wishing them continued success and glory.