New Delhi: Delhi govt has decided to substantially increase the cash reward for athletes winning medals at international events, chief minister Rekha Gupta said on Saturday. During an interactive session organised for budding sportspersons with eminent Olympians, Paralympians and Asian Games medallists at the capital’s Thyagraj Stadium, the chief minister said Delhi will award Rs 7 crore, Rs 5 crore and Rs 3 crore respectively to gold, silver and bronze medal winners at the Olympics. The amount will be Rs 3 crore, Rs 2 crore and Rs 1 crore for those returning with top three positions in the Commonwealth Games. “In sports, not just medals and trophies are won, but respect is earned for life. Under no govt before Prime Minister Narendra Modi was sports given such attention. He completely changed the sports scene across the country,” Gupta said, adding that her govt was taking decisive steps to provide athletes with world-class sporting facilities. The chief minister said the sportspersons will also be given job security along with cash rewards. “When an athlete wins a medal, it makes all 140 crore Indians proud. Under PM Modi’s government, games are appreciated and incentivised. This is new India, where every facility is ensured for our sportsmen,” she said. Highlighting the recently enacted National Sports Governance Act 2025, which she described as the “Constitution of Sports”, Gupta said the new law will ensure improved facilities, professional coaching, balanced nutrition and essential resources for athletes. “Our govt has not only raised prize money and expanded facilities but has also ensured that athletes receive the respect and opportunities they deserve. Delhi’s athletes are now excelling on both national and international platforms,” the chief minister said. The event was also attended by Delhi education minister Ashish Sood and senior athletes, who shared their experiences to motivate young sporting talent.
