Kerala Government Rewards Sportspersons for International Success

Kerala's Chief Minister VD Satheesan has announced significant cash rewards for the state's athletes who have excelled in international competitions. This initiative aims to honor sports icons like Murali Sreeshankar and Mohammed Basil, who have made remarkable achievements at events such as the Commonwealth Games. The financial support is designed to empower these athletes to focus on their training and continue to bring glory to the nation. The awards also extend to coaches and finalists, showcasing Kerala's commitment to promoting sports excellence. Read on to discover the details of the awards and the inspiring stories behind these athletes.

By Narendra Chaudhary Aug 14, 2026, 23:49 IST

Recognition for Kerala's Sporting Achievements

On Friday, Chief Minister VD Satheesan of Kerala announced financial rewards for the state's athletes who have recently excelled in international competitions. The recipients include Commonwealth Games medalists Murali Sreeshankar and Mohammed Basil Morssinganakath, young chess champion Divi Bijesh, and athlete Sandra Mol Sabu.

Kerala Government Celebrates Sports Stars

In a post shared on X, Satheesan highlighted the government's initiative to honor these athletes for their remarkable achievements and to provide them with financial assistance to support their ongoing sports careers. He stated, "Keralam is honoring our sports icons with significant cash awards for their outstanding international achievements!"

The awards include:

Rs 20 Lakh each for: M. Sreeshankar (Commonwealth Games Silver), Mohammed Basil (Para-athlete, 100m Silver), Divi Bijesh (U-12 World Chess Champion), Sandra Mol Sabu (U-23 Asian Games Relay Gold)

Rs 5 Lakh each for: Sajan Prakash (CWG Swimming Finalist), Ansa Babu (4x400m Mixed Relay Finalist)

Rs 2 Lakh each for the coaches of Sreeshankar and Basil

He expressed pride in their accomplishments, stating that this support will enable them to concentrate on their training and bring further glory to the nation.

Highlights of Awardees and Their Achievements

[object Object]

Awards for Finalists and Coaches

Swimmer Sajan Prakash and athlete Ansa Babu were each awarded Rs 5 lakh. Prakash reached the men's 200m butterfly final at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games, while Babu was part of the Indian mixed 4x400m relay team that finished sixth in the final. Additionally, the coaches of Sreeshankar and Basil received Rs 2 lakh each.

India concluded the 2026 Commonwealth Games in fourth place, securing a total of 39 medals, which included 13 gold, 17 silver, and nine bronze.