Patna (Bihar) [India], May 10: The Patliputra Sports Complex was alive with celebration on Friday as the girls' rugby team from Bihar achieved a remarkable milestone, securing a gold medal with a commanding 22-0 victory against Odisha during the inaugural rugby event at the Khelo India Youth Games (KIYG) 2025.

Three standout players, Anshu Kumari, Saloni Kumari, and Alpana Kumari, not only led their team to triumph but also represented a broader story of empowerment, resilience, and hope, as highlighted in a recent release.

Remarkably, ten of the twelve athletes on Bihar's gold medal-winning team have emerged from the ASMITA League (Achieving Sports Milestone by Inspiring Women Through Action), a grassroots initiative that has transformed women's sports in Bihar over the last three years. For many of these young women, rugby has evolved from an unfamiliar sport to a core part of their identity.

Anshu, a Class 12 student whose father operates a small sweet shop, made her mark by winning a bronze medal at the U-14 nationals in Pune. Saloni, the daughter of a street vendor, proudly recalls her experience as captain of India's U-18 team at the Asian Rugby Championship in Malaysia. Meanwhile, Alpana, who has battled through numerous injuries, including a fractured collarbone and a serious road accident, exemplifies the spirit of perseverance.

The Khelo India Youth Games have emerged as a crucial platform for aspiring athletes. For individuals like Anshu, Saloni, and Alpana, earning a medal at KIYG signifies more than just a win; it opens doors to national training camps, job prospects, and long-term recognition.

On this momentous occasion for Bihar rugby, amidst cheers, tears, and celebrations, the message resonated clearly: this is merely the beginning. With ASMITA providing a solid foundation and KIYG offering a stage, the daughters of Bihar are racing towards a future filled with potential.