National-level athlete Deepak Kumar, 22, is currently selling sugarcane juice near the District Administrative Complex, braving the intense 44°C heat. Despite his impressive achievements in athletics, Deepak finds himself without a stable job or financial support.
With dozens of his medals proudly displayed on his juice cart, Deepak attracts curious visitors who often stop to admire his awards. He has won two silver medals in cross-country races at national-level competitions in Nagaland in 2022 and 2023, along with 16 gold medals in various athletics meets over the past six years. He has also received five Khel Rattan Awards in “Khedan Vatan Punjab Dian” meets organized by the Punjab government.
A graduate of Guru Nanak Dev University and a resident of the border village Sabuana, Deepak has repeatedly approached government authorities for employment but has yet to receive any positive response.
Forced by circumstances to sell juice on his “jugadu” vehicle, Deepak has appealed to the state government to provide financial aid and suitable jobs to sportspersons like him who have brought pride to Punjab through their hard work and dedication.
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