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March 9, 2024, Manipal: The Department of Commerce (DOC) Sports Management and the Department of Sports Science at Manipal College of Health Professions (MCHP) celebrated a significant milestone in the promotion of gender equality in sports with the inauguration of "Her World, Her Rules." This initiative, launched in partnership with the Sports Council of Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), the Basketball Federation of India (BFI), and under the guidelines of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA), marked International Women’s Day with a commitment to empowering young girls through sports. Held at the Marena Sports Complex in Manipal, the event was a part of a broader FIBA initiative and drew participation from nearly 150 girl students from the surrounding Udupi area.

The ceremony welcomed nearly 150 girl students from 10 schools in the vicinity of Udupi, embedding itself in a global narrative alongside 72 other FIBA member nations to inspire and educate through the spirited game of basketball. Led by Mr. Jugan Sukaneshwara, the basketball clinic presented a foundational learning experience, further enhanced by an interactive session and sports quiz, highlighting the significant impact of sports in the empowerment of women and the promotion of gender equality.

Pushpa Senthil Kumar, an emblematic figure in Indian basketball, shared her profound journey and the lessons learned along the way. "Every setback and victory on the court has taught me the invaluable lesson of resilience. It’s this resilience that I want to impart to every young girl embarking on her sporting journey. Your strength doesn’t just come from physical ability; it’s rooted in your determination and the unwavering belief in your potential. Embrace every challenge as an opportunity to grow stronger and more confident in your abilities."

Adding to the voices of support, Dr. Sharath K Rao, Pro Vice Chancellor (Health Sciences) at MAHE, shared his vision for the integration of sports and health sciences, "The ’Her World, Her Rules’ initiative is not just about sports; it’s about fostering a culture of health, well-being, and equality. By focusing on the holistic development of young girls, we’re investing in a future where they can thrive as individuals and lead in every sphere of life. This initiative exemplifies our dedication to creating an environment where young women are encouraged to excel, supported by the pillars of health science and athletic excellence."

Lt. Gen. (Dr.) M. D. Venkatesh, Vice Chancellor MAHE, emphasized the comprehensive benefits of integrating sports within the educational system. "The infusion of sports into our educational ethos does more than just promote physical well-being; it cultivates critical life skills such as teamwork, leadership, and perseverance. ’Her World, Her Rules’ is a testament to our dedication to empowering young women, providing them with the platform to excel and the confidence to pursue their ambitions with zeal and determination. It’s about shaping individuals who are not only academically proficient but also emotionally and physically resilient."

Mr. Kulvinder Singh, Secretary General of the Basketball Federation of India, spoke on the initiative’s broader societal impact. "Achieving gender equality in sports is imperative for creating a more inclusive and equitable society. This initiative is a step towards challenging and changing the narratives around women in sports, encouraging them to push boundaries and redefine excellence. We are committed to nurturing a generation of girls who are not only passionate about their sport but also equipped with the courage to pursue their dreams relentlessly."

Dr. H.S. Ballal, Pro Chancellor of MAHE, highlighted the symbolic significance of the event. "The inauguration of ’Her World, Her Rules’ transcends the celebration of International Women’s Day; it embodies our enduring commitment to fostering an environment where young women are encouraged to pursue sports as a pathway to empowerment. By supporting this initiative, we reaffirm our pledge to champion the cause of women in sports, advocating for equality and striving to create opportunities that enable them to achieve their fullest potential."

"Her World, Her Rules" is more than an event; it’s a milestone in the journey towards gender equality and empowerment through sports. The initiative warmly invites media, public, and sports enthusiasts to join in supporting and celebrating this significant move towards empowering young girls, showcasing the transformative power of sports in creating leaders of tomorrow.

The event also benefited from the presence and contributions of Shyam Aditya, CFO of the Basketball Federation of India; T Chengalraya Naidu, Treasurer of the BFI; Jugan Sukaneshwara, an ex-national basketball player and adjunct faculty at DOC; Sandeep Shenoy, Head of the Department, DOC; Dr. Arun Mayya, Dean of MCHP; and Dr. Vinod C Nayak, Sports Council Secretary, MAHE, all of whom played pivotal roles in the success of this landmark event.