KATHMANDU, FEBRUARY 25 United Cements Ltd. has announced financial assistance of Rs 500,000 for the medical treatment of Sabitra Bhandari, captain of Nepal's national women's football team. The company, a subsidiary of the KL Dugar Group, said the support was extended following public appeals after Bhandari sustained a serious knee injury that has kept her off the field. She has been undergoing rehabilitation for the past seven weeks. In a statement, United Cements described Bhandari as a source of national pride who has played a pivotal role in elevating Nepali women's football on the international stage. The company expressed hope for her speedy recovery and return to competitive football. It added that supporting national athletes during difficult times is part of the private sector's social responsibility, noting that greater corporate participation is essential for the development of the country's sports sector. Bhandari, popularly known as Samba, has been instrumental in raising the profile of Nepali women's football through her performances in national and international competitions. The company's contribution has been viewed as a positive gesture amid growing concern among supporters over her injury.