Four-time international throwball gold medallist Amardeep Kumar, 29, has reportedly been selling vegetables at Ranchi’s Argora Chowk and driving a cab to support his family while awaiting government employment. The Jharkhand athlete, who represented India internationally, has said he repeatedly approached authorities seeking a government job and financial support but is yet to receive a resolution.
His situation gained wider attention after reports highlighted his struggle. Following the coverage, Chief Minister Hemant Soren took cognisance of the matter and directed the sports department to examine his case. The sports minister also said employment opportunities would be explored under the state’s existing policy.
Four Golds, One Struggle
Kumar’s journey reflects the stark contrast between sporting achievement and financial security. He won his first international gold at the 2015 Asian Junior Throwball Championship in Malaysia, followed by golds in Kathmandu in 2017, Bengaluru in 2019 and Ranchi in 2026. Despite these achievements, he reportedly took loans to participate in tournaments and later repaid them through vegetable sales and cab driving.
Medals, Yet No Security
Kumar comes from a family dependent on modest livelihoods. His father sells vegetables, while his mother contributes to the household income and his elder brother runs a small business. Kumar has said he began pursuing government employment years ago and repeatedly approached officials. He also pointed to fellow players from states such as Haryana, Chhattisgarh and Bihar receiving government jobs and support, highlighting differences in opportunities available to athletes across states.
Government Takes Notice
The recent attention has prompted movement from the Jharkhand government. Soren directed officials to examine Kumar’s case, while the Jharkhand Milk Federation reportedly explored possible employment opportunities for him. The development offers hope, but also raises a wider question about how athletes in less-publicised sports are supported after representing the country.
.@SportsJhr तत्काल संज्ञान लें। https://t.co/ftH7BnKAbj
— Hemant Soren (@HemantSorenJMM) September 1, 2026
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Amardeep’s story is not about the dignity of selling vegetables or driving a cab; it is about whether an athlete who spent years representing India should have to struggle alone for financial security. Sporting success deserves recognition, but athletes also need transparent policies, timely assistance and meaningful career pathways. Government support should not arrive only after a struggle becomes widely reported.
What more can India do to ensure athletes are supported both on the field and after their medals are won?
