CM Sukhu Rewards Himachali Kabaddi Gold Medallists
CM Sukhu announces Rs 1 crore each and government jobs for Himachali kabaddi gold medallists Pushpa Rana, Jyoti Thakur, and Bhawna Thakur.
In a massive boost to sporting excellence in the state, Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has announced a windfall for the local heroes of the Indian women’s kabaddi team. To celebrate their historic gold medal victory at the Asian Games 2026, the state government will award at least Rs 1 crore each to the three Himachali players who stood atop the podium.
The golden trio—Pushpa Rana, Jyoti Thakur, and Bhawna Thakur—were honoured by the Chief Minister in Shimla, where they were presented with traditional Himachali caps and shawls as a mark of respect for their monumental achievement.
Guaranteed Jobs for Golden Athletes
Beyond the substantial cash prize, the state government is ensuring long-term security for these champions. Chief Minister Sukhu announced that all three players will be provided with employment in government service.
The government has offered flexible career paths to ensure their sporting journeys are not interrupted:
- Athletes have the option to join the Police Department.
- Those preferring a different route can be appointed to the Youth Services and Sports Department.
This strategic move is designed to allow the players to continue their professional sporting careers while simultaneously contributing to the growth and development of sports infrastructure within Himachal Pradesh.
Historic Policy Shifts and Cricket Rewards
During the felicitation, the Chief Minister highlighted that the state has undergone a significant transformation in how it supports talent. By revising the state's sports policy, the government has made historic enhancements in prize money for athletes.
The Chief Minister also extended the celebrations to the cricket field, announcing that Indian women’s cricket star Renuka Thakur will also be awarded Rs 1 crore by the state government in recognition of her stellar contributions to the sport.
The event was attended by prominent leaders, including Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil and Principal Advisor (Media) Naresh Chauhan. A formal felicitation ceremony is expected to be organised soon, where the official prize money will be presented to the winners.