Shimla: Chief minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu distributed a total of Rs. 14.77 crore in cash prizes to 21 international medal winners at a grand ceremony held today.
The event celebrated the achievements of athletes who have not only brought pride to Himachal Pradesh but also represented India in the international arena.
Among those honored included Paralympian Nishad Kumar from Una district, who was rewarded with Rs. 7.80 crore for his exceptional accomplishments. Nishad’s achievements include winning a silver medal in the Tokyo Paralympics 2022, a silver medal in the Paris Paralympics 2024, a gold medal in the Para Asian Games 2023 in China, and a silver medal at the World Games in Portugal 2022. His success story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the spirit of competition that defines true sportsmanship.
Ajay Kumar, from Mandi district, was awarded Rs. 2.50 crore for his silver medal performance at the Para Asian Games China 2023. Ritu Negi, a Kabaddi player from Sirmaur district, was recognized with Rs. 33.32 lakh for leading the Indian Kabaddi team to victory at the Asian Games China 2023, in addition to winning a silver medal at the Asian Games Jakarta 2018.
Kabaddi players, including Kumari Pushpa, Kumari Sushma Sharma, Kumari Nidhi Sharma, and Kumari Jyoti, were each awarded Rs. 33.32 lakh for being part of the victorious team at the Asian Games. Vishal Bhardwaj from Una district also received the same honor for his contribution to the team’s success.
Fencer Jyotika Dutta from Shimla district received Rs. 3 lakh for representing India in both the Asian Games China 2023 and Asian Games Jakarta 2018. Handball players from Bilaspur and Solan districts, including Kumari Diksha, Kumari Shalini Thakur, and Kumari Mitali Sharma, were also awarded Rs. 3 lakh each for their performances in the Asian Games China 2023.
Anjali Devi, from Mandi district, was honored with Rs. 3 lakh for her leadership in the Para Asian Games China 2023, where she excelled in the Boshiya Para Sports Competition. Renuka Singh Thakur, a cricketer from Shimla district, was awarded Rs. 13.32 lakh for her silver medal at the Commonwealth Games 2022 in Birmingham, while weightlifter Vikas Thakur from Hamirpur district received Rs. 2 crore for his silver medal in the individual event at the same games.
Ashish Kumar from Mandi district was awarded with Rs. 5 lakh for his contribution towards the Indian boxing team at the Commonwealth Games 2022, while Olympian shooter Vijay Kumar, from Hamirpur district, was awarded Rs. 2 lakh for his representation in the shooting team.
On the occasion the chief minister also honored Padma Shri Ajay Thakur and other notable personalities from the sports community for their outstanding contributions to various sporting disciplines.
“The success of these athletes is a reflection of their hard work, dedication, and the invaluable support they’ve received from their families, coaches, and communities,” Chief Minister Sukhu said during the ceremony. “It is our responsibility to recognize and support these heroes, ensuring that future generations are inspired by their achievements,” he added.
