LAHORE:The Punjab Sports Department celebrated its medal-winning athletes from the 35th National Games with a grand prize distribution ceremony at Punjab Stadium on Wednesday.
Punjab Minister for Energy, Youth Affairs and Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar awarded cash prizes worthmore than Rs30 million along with appreciation certificates to 126 athletes who brought laurels to the province. In individual events, gold medalists received Rs5 lakh each, silver medalists Rs3 lakh, and bronze medalists Rs2 lakh. For team events, gold medal winners were awarded Rs8 lakh, silver medalists Rs5 lakh, and bronze medalists Rs3 lakh.
The minister announced enhancements to the Sports Endowment Fund, raising the Platinum category scholarships from Rs75,000 to Rs100,000, Gold from Rs50,000 to Rs75,000 and Silver category from Rs30,000 to Rs50,000 for one year.
Addressing the gathering, the provincial minister announced that monthly stipends for athletes are being increased on the CM’s directives and revealed plans to issue Health Cards for top-performing players, coaches, and sports journalists. The minister praised the efforts of DG Sports Punjab KhizarAfzaal, former Secretary Muzaffar Khan Sial and the coaching staff for their effective role in Punjab’s success.
