Indian Railways Promotes Women’s World Cup Stars to OSD (Sports)

New Delhi, Dec 1 :Recognising their stellar contributions to India’s triumphant campaign in the 2025 ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup, Indian Railways has promoted three celebrated cricketers — Pratika Rawal, Sneh Rana and Renuka Singh Thakur — to the prestigious post of Officer on Special Duty (Sports) through an Out-of-Turn Promotion.

The promotions elevate the trio to Group ‘B’ Gazetted Officer status, entitling them to Level-8 pay and benefits under the 7th Central Pay Commission. The move by the Railway Sports Promotion Board (RSPB) aims to provide the athletes not only financial security but also expanded administrative responsibilities within the organisation.

The three players were felicitated earlier in November at Rail Bhawan by Union Minister for Railways, Information & Broadcasting, and Electronics & IT, Ashwini Vaishnaw.

Individual Promotions

• Pratika Rawal
  Former designation: Senior Clerk, Northern Railway
  New role: OSD (Sports), Group ‘B’ Gazetted
  Rawal, a dynamic opening batter from Delhi, played a crucial role in India’s title-winning campaign.

• Renuka Singh Thakur
  Former designation: Junior Clerk, Northern Railway
  New role: OSD (Sports), Group ‘B’ Gazetted
  A dependable right-arm medium-fast bowler, Renuka delivered match-winning spells in key fixtures of the World Cup.

• Sneh Rana
  Former designation: Commercial cum Ticket Clerk (CCTC), Northern Railway
  New role: OSD (Sports), Group ‘B’ Gazetted
  The all-rounder from Uttarakhand contributed vital performances with both bat and ball throughout the tournament.

Railways’ Continued Support to Indian Sports

Indian Railways has long been one of the largest institutional supporters of sporting talent in India, with numerous athletes across disciplines representing the nation globally. The latest promotions underscore the organisation’s commitment to empowering sportspersons and recognising their national achievements.