CHENNAI: Chief minister M K Stalin on Saturday announced a cash reward of Rs 3 crore for sportspersons from Tamil Nadu who win gold medal at the upcoming Tokyo Olympics.
He also announced a cash award of Rs 2 crore for those winning silver and Rs 1 crore for bronze medallists at the multi-national event next month.
Also known as Tokyo 2020, the 2020 Summer Olympics is scheduled to be held from July 23 to August 8, 2021, in Japan after it was postponed last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
“We had promised in the DMK election manifesto that an Olympic Academy will be established in four zones in Tamil Nadu.
Our promises will be fulfilled.
A world-class gym and a state-of-the-art facility to scientifically aid sportspersons will also be set up,” Stalin said.
Stalin was addressing athletes and sportspersons from Tamil Nadu after inaugurating a special Covid vaccination camp for sportspersons at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium.
The camp was organized by the Department of Youth Welfare and Sports, Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu, Health Department and Tamil Nadu Olympic Association.
Stalin promised that his government is committed to promoting sportspersons.
“Whether it’s a sixer by Dhoni or a goal by Ronaldo (Cristiano), the audience in the stadium and those watching on television feel it as a personal achievement,” Stalin said on a sportsperson’s connect with people.
He added that icons such as Sachin Tendulkar, M S Dhoni, P T Usha and Karnam Malleswari inspire the next generation of sports personalities.
“A sportsperson can inspire a generation and you all should keep that in your mind and be assured that the Tamil Nadu government will support you in your well-being and welfare.” Stalin said.
He also spoke on the importance of team spirit in sports.
“Life is a game, it is said.
There are several in this country who treat politics like a game too.
But, sports should be taken seriously.
Sportspersons bring repute to the country and inspire a generation,” Stalin said.
Reminiscing about his sporting abilities in his youth, the chief minister said that not only as the leader of the state, but also as a sports enthusiast he will stand by athletes and sportspersons for their development.
Nethra Kumanan, Varun Thakkar and K C Ganapathy (sailing), G Sathian and A Sharath Kamal (table tennis), C A Bhavani Devi (fencing) and paralympian T Mariappan have qualified for the marquee event from Tamil Nadu.
Bhavani Devi, who became the first-ever Indian fencer to qualify for the Tokyo Olympic, has been provided an incentive of Rs 5 lakh.
The other six athletes will also be provided the cash incentive, Stalin said.