Kerala government announces cash prize for Asian Games 2023 medallist

The Kerala government on Wednesday announced cash prizes for sportspersons hailing from the state who secured top positions in the Asian Games 2023 held in Hangzhou China recently.

The decision was taken by the state cabinet meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and comes amid heavy criticism after three prominent Kerala athletes quit representing Kerala over lack of attention from the government.

According to a statement issued by the Chief Minister's Office, gold medalists from the state would receive Rs 25 lakh, silver medalists Rs 19 lakh, and bronze medalists Rs 12.5 lakh.

Hockey star Sreejesh, a gold medalist, recently voiced his concerns about the lack of attention and support from the Kerala government. He had alleged that no representative from local authorities had reached out to him since his return from China.

The Leader of Opposition in the assembly, VD Satheesan, had urged the Kerala government to take immediate action to retain athletes by offering them the promised rewards and employment opportunities.

He highlighted reports of athletes leaving the state due to perceived neglect by the government and sports department. Prannoy, along with triple jump stars Eldhose Paul and Abdullah Abubakar, have reportedly expressed intentions to leave Kerala.

A total of 33 athletes from Kerala participated in the games, clinching four gold, six silver, and two bronze medals. The gold medalists included Muhammed Anas and Muhammad Ajmal (4X400 m relay), Minnumani (Cricket), and P R Sreejesh (Hockey).

Silver medalists were H S Prannoy and M R Arjun (Badminton), and athletes Muhammed Afzal, Muhammed Ajmal, M Sreeshankar, and Ancy Sojan. A reception to honour these achievers and their coaches will be held in the state capital on Thursday, attended by Chief Minister Vijayan and Sports Minister V Abdurahiman, official sources said.