Karnataka to revise cash incentive for Asian Games medalists

On Monday, Deputy Chief Minister and Sports Minister G. Parameshwara announced that the cash incentive for Asian Games medallists from Karnataka will be revised, with the new amounts to be announced on Tuesday. According to the 2024 Budget, gold, silver, and bronze medalists were to receive ₹35 lakh, ₹25 lakh, and ₹15 lakh respectively.

However, these figures were criticized as being insufficient compared to those provided by other states like Haryana, where a gold medallist receives ₹3 crore. Parameshwara addressed concerns about the government's lack of prompt congratulations to medal-winning athletes. M.R. Poovamma, who won gold and silver in women's 4x400m relays, expressed frustration over the absence of acknowledgment from state officials during her return from Japan.

Within hours of her return to India, Parameshwara personally contacted her and several other athletes. Additionally, the State government has now released a gazette notification, reserving 2% of jobs in government departments for eligible sportspersons across 34 disciplines. To qualify, athletes must have resided in Karnataka for ten years and have represented the state in a recognized national championship.

The reservation for SC, ST, and OBC categories will follow general merit criteria, while para athletes will be considered for posts identified by an expert committee under Section 33 of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016. The notification also increases the reservation for Police and Forest Departments from 2% to 3%, implemented in a previous Budget.