Kerala Government Rewards Sportspersons for International Success
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
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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.
