Himachal Pradesh Announces Generous Cash Rewards for Asian Games 2026 Medalists

Cash Rewards for Medal Winners

On Monday, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu declared a substantial cash reward of Rs 5.33 crore for athletes from Himachal Pradesh who secured medals at the Asian Games 2026. This initiative acknowledges their exceptional efforts and dedication that have brought honor to the state.

According to the Himachal Pradesh Sports Council Cash Award Rules, 2024, the four athletes from Himachal Pradesh who were part of the Indian women's kabaddi team that clinched the gold medal—Pushpa Rana, Ritu Negi, Jyoti Thakur, and Bhavna Thakur—will each receive Rs 33.33 lakh.

The total prize money allocated for the kabaddi team members from Himachal Pradesh amounts to around Rs 1.33 crore, distributed based on each player's participation as per the established guidelines.

Sawan Barwal from Mandi will be awarded Rs 2.50 crore for his silver medal achievement in the men's marathon, while Seema Kumari from Chamba will receive Rs 1.50 crore for her bronze medal in the women's 10,000-meter race.

The Chief Minister expressed his congratulations to the medalists, their families, coaches, and support staff, emphasizing that their accomplishments are a source of immense pride for Himachal Pradesh.

He noted that their commitment, discipline, and determination have not only honored the state but also serve as an inspiration for the youth to engage in sports and aim for excellence on both national and international platforms.

Sukhu highlighted that the state government has significantly increased prize money to motivate athletes. Gold medalists at the Olympic, Winter Olympic, and Paralympic Games now receive Rs 5 crore, while silver and bronze medalists are awarded Rs 3 crore and Rs 2 crore, respectively.

For the Asian Games and Para Asian Games, gold medalists will receive Rs 4 crore, silver medalists Rs 2.50 crore, and bronze medalists Rs 1.50 crore. In the Commonwealth Games and Para Commonwealth Games, the rewards are Rs 3 crore for gold, Rs 2 crore for silver, and Rs 1 crore for bronze.

In 2024, a total of Rs 17.44 crore in prize money was distributed to sportspersons who participated in or won medals at international events. Additionally, under the 3 percent sports quota, 99 athletes have been granted employment opportunities. Sukhu also mentioned that diet allowances for athletes have been increased.