Himachal CM Honors Athletes for Special Olympics World Winter Games, Announces Enhanced Prize Money for Medalists.

Himachal CM Honors Athletes for Special Olympics World Winter Games, Announces Enhanced Prize Money for Medalists. 

 

Shimla:

 

 

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu extended a warm send-off to the athletes and coaches from Himachal Pradesh selected for the Special Olympics World Winter Games, set to take place in Turin, Italy from March 7 to 16, 2025.

In a heartfelt ceremony, the Chief Minister lauded the achievements of the 24 athletes and coaches from Himachal, who are part of the 49-member Indian delegation. These athletes will compete in several winter sports events, including Skiing, Snowboarding, Cross-Country Skiing, Snowshoeing, and Floorball, making the state proud on an international stage.

“The participation of our athletes in this prestigious event is a source of immense pride for Himachal Pradesh. I have full faith that they will showcase their talent and bring glory not just to the country, but also to the state,” said CM Sukhu. He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting budding athletes, providing them with the resources needed to compete at national and international levels.

Sukhu also announced that the state government would honor the medal winners from the World Winter Games. As part of its continued support for athletes, the government has increased prize money for international sports achievements. “We have significantly enhanced the prize money for gold, silver, and bronze medalists in international competitions, ensuring that our athletes are rewarded for their hard work and dedication,” said the Chief Minister.

The newly announced prize money includes:

  • Olympics, Winter Olympics, and Paralympics:
    Gold medalists will receive Rs. 5 crore (up from Rs. 3 crore),
    Silver medalists will receive Rs. 3 crore (up from Rs. 2 crore),
    Bronze medalists will receive Rs. 2 crore (up from Rs. 1 crore).
  • Asian Games and Asian Para Games:
    Gold medalists will receive Rs. 4 crore (up from Rs. 50 lakh),
    Silver medalists will receive Rs. 2.5 crore (up from Rs. 30 lakh),
    Bronze medalists will receive Rs. 1.5 crore (up from Rs. 20 lakh).
  • Commonwealth Games:
    Gold medalists will receive Rs. 3 crore (up from Rs. 50 lakh),
    Silver medalists will receive Rs. 2 crore (up from Rs. 30 lakh),
    Bronze medalists will receive Rs. 1 crore (up from Rs. 20 lakh).

The prize increases are part of the state’s ongoing efforts to encourage youth participation in sports, and to combat the growing concern of drug abuse among young people by offering healthier, competitive avenues.

Shimla Urban MLA Harish Janartha also attended the event, showing his support for the athletes and the state’s initiative to foster sports development.

The Chief Minister’s support for the athletes ahead of the Special Olympics World Winter Games highlights Himachal Pradesh’s commitment to promoting sports excellence and providing its athletes with the resources to excel on the world stage.

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