Himachal Pradesh CM Promises Rs 1 Crore and Jobs to Kabaddi Gold Medalists

In a significant gesture, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has promised Rs 1 crore each to the gold medal-winning kabaddi players Pushpa Rana, Jyoti Thakur, and Bhavna Thakur. During a meeting, the players expressed their concerns about the initial reward and requested Class-1 government jobs. The CM responded positively, ensuring that the athletes would be honored in a forthcoming ceremony. This move highlights the state's commitment to supporting its athletes and enhancing sports infrastructure. The kabaddi team achieved remarkable success at the Asian Games, further elevating the pride of Himachal Pradesh on an international stage.

By Narendra Chaudhary Oct 6, 2026, 10:45 IST

Support for Kabaddi Champions

Shimla (Himachal Pradesh) [India], October 6: Pushpa Rana, the captain of the Indian women's kabaddi team, shared that Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has addressed the players' concerns during a recent meeting. He assured Rana, along with teammates Jyoti Thakur and Bhavna Thakur, of a reward of Rs 1 crore each, in addition to responding positively to their request for Class-1 government positions.

On Monday, CM Sukhu declared that the three Himachali athletes, who clinched gold in kabaddi at the Asian Games, would receive a minimum of Rs 1 crore each from the state government.

In an interview, Pushpa Rana expressed that the players voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the initially proposed Rs 33 lakh reward. Following their discussion, the Chief Minister promised them Rs 1 crore each. She mentioned that they also requested Class-1 government jobs, to which the Chief Minister reacted favorably.

“Our primary concern was the Rs 33 lakh reward. Meeting with the CM was a delightful experience; he was very approachable and attentive to our issues, promptly deciding to grant us Rs 1 crore. We are optimistic about receiving Class-1 jobs in recognition of our achievements. We presented this request to the CM, who assured us he would take action,” she stated.

The Chief Minister announced that a ceremony would be held soon to honor the players, during which they will receive the promised prize money.

Additionally, Sukhu confirmed that the three athletes would be offered government positions. Those opting out of the Police Department will have opportunities in the Youth Services and Sports Department, enabling them to continue their sports careers while promoting sports development in the state.

He highlighted that the state government has significantly increased the prize money through a revised sports policy and is focusing on enhancing sports infrastructure throughout Himachal Pradesh.

Himachal Pradesh Parliamentary Affairs Minister Harsh Vardhan Chauhan remarked on the pride of having three women—Pushpa Rana, Bhavna Thakur, and Jyoti Thakur—representing and leading the Indian kabaddi team at the Asian Games.

“Today, three young women from Himachal Pradesh represented the Indian team: captain Pushpa Rana, Bhavna Thakur, and Jyoti Thakur. Their meeting with the Chief Minister and myself is a source of immense pride, as these players are bringing honor not just to our state but to the nation on an international platform. The Chief Minister announced that each player will receive Rs 1 crore, and the recruitment process for their employment will commence soon,” he informed reporters.

It is noteworthy that kabaddi achieved remarkable success at the Asian Games, with the women's team defeating Iran 37-34 in a thrilling final, while the men's team overcame Iran 40-34 to secure their victory.