Kerala Boosts Nehru Trophy Boat Race Funding to ₹2 Crore, Prize Money Hiked

The Kerala government has increased its annual financial assistance for the Nehru Trophy Boat Race (NTBR) to ₹2 crore, announced Tourism Minister P.C. Vishnunadh on Sunday. The decision was taken during a meeting of the NTBR Executive Committee, chaired by District Collector Shaji V. Nair, in Alappuzha.

Minister Vishnunadh stated that the grant enhancement followed a request from Congress MP K.C. Venugopal. He also assured that the government would consider increasing the maintenance grant for snake boats, subject to Budget provisions. The event, held annually on Punnamada Lake, features traditional snake boats and draws tourists from across India and abroad.

Venugopal confirmed that prize money for the race would be revised upwards: first prize increased to ₹25 lakh, second prize to ₹20 lakh, third prize to ₹15 lakh, and fourth prize to ₹10 lakh. Additionally, the bonus for participants has been raised to 25 percent.

The minister also addressed the Champions Boat League (CBL), for which ₹11 crore has been allocated this year. Modeled after the Indian Premier League, the CBL is expected to become financially self-sustaining, though it will continue in its current format for 2023. Vishnunadh assured that there would be no disruption to the league's functioning.

The meeting was attended by MP Kodikunnil Suresh, MLA A.D. Thomas, Alappuzha municipal chairperson Molly Jacob, senior Tourism department officials, and representatives from various committees. The NTBR is scheduled for August 22.

Venugopal urged the District Tourism Promotion Council (DTPC) to extend adequate support as the race coincides with the Onam season. The minister assured that financial assistance to the Alappuzha DTPC would not be reduced, as district allocations have been rationalized.