Chandigarh
4 August 2023
DIVYA AZAD
The Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) proudly presents its prestigious 6th PEFI Award for the Best Individual/ Organization/ NGO Promoting Fitness & Sports to the visionary and passionate football enthusiast, Ranjit Bajaj.
This esteemed award recognizes Bajaj’s exceptional contributions to Indian Football, particularly for his relentless efforts in driving Minerva Academy to unprecedented success at both youth and senior levels. Moreover, his relentless pursuit of a common dream to see India participate in the FIFA World Cup has captured the hearts of sports enthusiasts nationwide.
The Physical Education Foundation of India (PEFI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting physical education, fitness, and sports culture in India. PEFI recognizes and honors individuals, organizations, and NGOs that have made significant contributions to the development and promotion of fitness and sports across the country.
Ranjit Bajaj has been an unwavering force in the Indian football landscape, igniting a revolution in the game’s grassroots development and its overall growth. As the founder and driving force behind the Minerva Academy, he has been instrumental in nurturing young talent and providing them with a platform to showcase their skills, ultimately shaping the future of Indian football.
Under Bajaj’s dynamic leadership, Minerva Academy has achieved numerous milestones and accolades. The club’s youth teams have consistently excelled in national and international tournaments, bringing forth a new generation of talented footballers who have gone on to represent the country at various levels. His dedication and commitment to grooming young athletes have not only elevated the standards of Indian football but also earned him the respect and admiration of the sporting community.
The success stories of Minerva Academy are a testament to Bajaj’s profound impact on the sport. The club’s senior and junior teams have triumphed in domestic competitions, making it a formidable force in Indian football.
Beyond trophies and titles, Bajaj’s philosophy revolves around the holistic development of players, instilling values of discipline, hard work, and sportsmanship, both on and off the field.
However, it is perhaps Ranjit Bajaj’s audacious dream of seeing India participate in the FIFA World Cup that truly sets him apart as a visionary leader. His unyielding belief in the potential of Indian football and his tireless efforts to develop a robust football infrastructure across the nation have garnered widespread admiration.
In each and every step down the years his contributions to Indian football have been a testament to his and our unified dream. Over the years Minerva has produced numerous Indian players and have been a supply line for all the age group teams and even the senior Indian National Team.
What sets Minerva apart is the World Cup batch project where in more than 100 young kids were scouted and are staying in the academy training under the top class facilities and care along with free education for all the youngsters so that they do not fall behind in their normal routine as well.
Bajaj’s passion for football and his pursuit of excellence in promoting fitness and sports have significantly contributed to the growth of Indian football is what makes him different. He embodies the true spirit of sportsmanship and inspires countless individuals to embrace an active and healthy lifestyle. PEFI takes immense pride in honoring Ranjit Bajaj for his outstanding achievements and exemplary contributions to the sports community.
Ranjit Bajaj’s remarkable journey as a football entrepreneur and his invaluable contributions to the Indian football ecosystem make him the worthy recipient of the 6th PEFI Award for Best Individual/ Organization/ NGO Promoting Fitness & Sports. His vision, dedication, and unwavering passion continue to pave the way for a brighter future for Indian football, bringing us closer to the day when we proudly see the Indian national team participating in the FIFA World Cup.
