The picture of a 24-year-old girl wearing the uniform of Zomato, India's largest food delivery company, got viral on social media, who once played for India's under-16 women's football team nationally and Internationally.
Poulomi Adhikary travelled to Sri Lanka, Scotland, Germany, and the UK to play matches representing her country. But she had to leave her passion for becoming her family's financial support.
Poulomi is a student in her third year at Charuchandra University. After her mother's death, she had to run her family and become a food delivery agent.
A video of Poulomi Adhikary's interview with an Indian reporter became viral on Twitter. People reacted shockingly to the news that an international women's football team member now earns through delivery service to run her family, football accessories expenses, and her educational charges.
Women athletes' troubles are not always highly prioritised, especially in developing countries. As a result, many potential players drop out from the course of a successful career.
Poulomi is one such neglected athlete who has to continue her education and delivery work together. As a result, she is not getting the scope to focus on her passion.
On a positive note, the All Indian Football Federation released a road map to develop Indian football with calls for more investment in women's football. This includes honouring them with a minimum salary so they can continue with professional football stress-free.
Poulomi hopes that the schemes are implemented properly, and passionate athletes like her can live up to their potential.
