EDITOR’S SYNOPSIS
· Over 14 students from Maharashtra have won medals at the International Karate Championships and other events.
· Recently student Anushka Mandavkar from Chandrapur has secured 2nd position in 300m running at Nagpur and progressed to become a state-level 800m runner.
· Ambuja Cements fosters physical literacy and inclusiveness through its sports programme in rural schools.
· Students have shown over 70% improvement in endurance, agility, and core strength since 2018.
Ambuja Cements, the cement and building material company of the diversified Adani Portfolio, is transforming rural education in Chandrapur, Maharashtra through its innovative CSR programmes in physical literacy and sports promotion. Fourteen students from Ambuja-supported ZP Upper Primary School, Upparwahi, Chandrapur, participated in the 2024 International Karate Championships in Hyderabad, winning one Gold, five Silver, and seven Bronze medals.
Similarly, Anushka Mandavkar, a seventh grader from Nadgaon School, has progressed to become a state-level 800m runner under the Khelo India initiative. She recently secured 2nd position in 300m running at an event in Nagpur. Since 2018, the initiative has empowered thousands of students, enhancing physical fitness, building sports skills, and inspiring participation in national and international competitions.
The programme started as a pilot in 10 schools in Darlaghat, Himachal Pradesh, and later expanded to include 15 schools in Chandrapur, Maharashtra. It focuses on developing core physical competencies like endurance, agility, strength, and speed. Due to Ambuja Cements' efforts, a 2023 assessment by ELMS Sports Foundation reported a 73-74% improvement in students' physical fitness in addition to creating inspiring success stories.
Ambuja Cements is championing holistic development in underserved communities by collaborating with sports organisations, local authorities, and schools. The initiative also boosts school attendance, enhances discipline, and promotes inclusivity, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to unlock their full potential.