Bengaluru, 06 Oct (H.S.):The Karnataka government has substantially increased cash awards for Asian Games medallists, raising the reward for gold medal winners to Rs 1 crore and announcing additional financial incentives to recognise sporting excellence.

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Deputy Chief Minister and Youth Empowerment and Sports Minister Dr G. Parameshwara felicitated the state’s medal-winning athletes at Vidhana Soudha on Tuesday for their achievements at the recently concluded 2026 Asian Games.

Speaking at the ceremony, Parameshwara said the athletes had brought honour to both Karnataka and the country. He said the government was strengthening support for sporting talent through higher financial rewards, employment security and assistance for participation in international competitions.

Under the revised award structure, gold medallists will receive Rs 1 crore, silver medallists Rs 75 lakh and bronze medallists Rs 50 lakh.

The previous awards were Rs 35 lakh for gold, Rs 25 lakh for silver and Rs 15 lakh for bronze. The revision therefore represents a substantial increase across all three medal categories.

Eight medal-winning athletes will receive cash awards under the revised structure. In addition to their medal-linked rewards, each will receive an incentive of Rs 5 lakh for participating in the 2026 Asian Games, Parameshwara said.

He said the enhanced awards were intended to give athletes recognition commensurate with their achievements while encouraging emerging talent to pursue success at the international level.

The minister also emphasised the government’s commitment to providing athletes with greater financial support and employment security as they prepare for major competitions.

The felicitation ceremony recognised the contribution of Karnataka’s athletes to India’s performance at the Games, with the government presenting the increased rewards as part of its broader effort to support sporting careers and inspire future competitors.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman