TN CM Vijay announces ₹30 lakh, ₹20 lakh cash awards for CWG medalists

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and Governor Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar on Saturday congratulated Praveen Chithravel and Selva Prabhu for winning the silver and bronze medals, respectively, in the men's triple jump event at the 23rd Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, Scotland. In recognition of their achievements, the State government will provide cash incentives of ₹30 lakh to Mr. Chithravel and ₹20 lakh to Mr. Prabhu, the Chief Minister announced.

Taking to social media platform X, Mr. Vijay said it was a matter of great pride and happiness that two athletes from Tamil Nadu had won medals in the same event. He noted that both athletes trained at sports hostels run by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu (SDAT), calling the achievement a proud moment for the State's sports sector. 'Their hard work, perseverance and dedication have not only brought them success but have also brought pride to the entire nation,' he said.

Governor Arlekar, in a post on X, highlighted that this marked India's first-ever double podium finish in the ongoing games. 'This outstanding accomplishment brings great pride to the nation and serves as an inspiration to young athletes across the country,' he said.

The Commonwealth Games, held every four years, bring together athletes from nations and territories of the Commonwealth of Nations. India has a strong history in athletics, and the triple jump event has often been a medal prospect. This year's performance by the two Tamil Nadu athletes stands out not only for their individual success but also for the rare feat of two Indians sharing the podium in the same track and field event.

The cash awards are part of the State government's ongoing efforts to encourage and support sportspersons representing Tamil Nadu at national and international levels. Both athletes are products of the SDAT system, which provides training facilities and residential coaching to promising sportspersons. The government has previously announced similar incentives for medal winners in other international tournaments.

The announcement has been welcomed by sports enthusiasts and officials, who see it as a positive step towards nurturing talent at the grassroots level. With the Commonwealth Games still underway, more athletes from the State and the country will be competing in various events, and the hope is that their performances will bring further laurels.