Following the prompt intervention of Para Sports Association of Haryana President and Health Minister Arti Singh Rao, the Haryana Govt has sanctioned ₹31.72 crore as prize money for 17 athletes from the state who participated in the 4th Para Asian Games 2022.
Among the gold medal winners, Pranav Soorma, Raman Sharma, Sumit (all from Athletics), and Tarun Dhillon (Para Badminton) were each awarded ₹3 crore. Previously, Haney (Athletics) had also received ₹3 crore for a gold medal. Nitesh Kumar (Para Badminton) received ₹3 crore for a gold and an additional ₹1.5 crore for a silver medal. Sarita Adhana (Para Archery) was awarded ₹1.5 crore for her silver medal.
Other silver medalists, including Pooja, Dharambir, Rinku, Parmod, Yogesh Kathuniya, Rampal, and Monu Ghanghas (all Athletics), were each granted ₹1.5 crore. For participation, Anju Bala (Para Lawn Bowls), Jasbeer (Athletics), and Jaideep (Canoeing) each received ₹7.5 lakh.
Speaking on the occasion, Health Minister Arti Singh Rao praised the para-athletes for making Haryana and India proud, adding that it was the government’s duty to ensure they receive due recognition and rewards without delay. She thanked Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini for his quick response and reiterated the state’s unwavering commitment to supporting para-sports and promoting inclusivity in athletics.
The Minister highlighted that the decision came after a recent meeting between the athletes and her, during which the prize disbursal issue was raised. She promptly brought the matter to the Chief Minister’s attention, leading to immediate action and release of the cash rewards.