Odisha Govt Revises Cash Award Guidelines for Outstanding Sportspersons

Bhubaneswar: The Sports and Youth Services Department of the Odisha government has introduced revised guidelines for extending cash awards to sportspersons, coaches, para, and differently-abled athletes for their outstanding performances in national and international sports competitions.

Under the updated guidelines, the maximum quantum of cash awards for a sportsperson’s lifetime has been set at ₹9.00 Crore. However, if a sportsperson achieves more than one medal in a specific event or competition, they will be eligible to receive the cash award for the highest medal secured in that competition.

The guidelines specify that if a sportsperson wins multiple highest positions (gold medals or 1st positions) in the same sports competition, they will be sanctioned a cash award for the number of highest positions won. On the other hand, if a sportsperson attains a lower position or medal in a sports event compared to the previous year, they will not be eligible for any cash award for the subsequent year for their performance.

Furthermore, if a sportsperson wins a medal in an event or competition, they will be eligible for cash awards in the same event or competition in subsequent years only if they secure a higher or the highest medal in the event.

These revised guidelines aim to streamline the cash award distribution process and recognize the achievements of sportspersons while incentivizing continuous excellence in sports.