In a significant shift in the state's sports policy, Bengal will now fall under the purview of the National Sports Governance Act, 2025, as the state government decided to adopt it immediately. This move will help state sports units gain recognition from national federations and the central government easily, ensuring transparency in their operations.
The days of athletes from Bengal relocating to other states in search of better opportunities seem to be over, as the government introduced a host of sports-friendly policies. In a boost to Bengal athletes winning medals at various national and international tournaments, State Sports Minister Nisith Pramanik announced a range of enhanced benefits.
Enhanced Medal Rewards
An Olympic gold medalist from Bengal will now receive Rs 8 crore, a substantial increase from the previous Rs 25 lakh. Similarly, a silver medalist will get Rs 6 crore, up from Rs 15 lakh, and a bronze medalist will receive Rs 4 crore, up from Rs 10 lakh. Similar increases have been made for Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and National Games medal winners. Previously, there was no provision to reward medal winners at World Championship events, but now they will also receive financial benefits. Additionally, all such winners will be provided government jobs according to their educational qualifications.
Reward Breakdown
- Olympics: Gold: Rs 8 crore (from Rs 25 lakh); Silver: Rs 6 crore (from Rs 15 lakh); Bronze: Rs 4 crore (from Rs 10 lakh)
- Asian Games: Gold: Rs 5 crore (from Rs 7.5 lakh); Silver: Rs 4 crore (previously not available); Bronze: Rs 2 crore (previously not available)
- Commonwealth Games: Gold: Rs 1.5 crore (from Rs 5 lakh); Silver: Rs 75 lakh (from Rs 3 lakh); Bronze: Rs 50 lakh (from Rs 2 lakh)
- World Championships: Gold: Rs 2 crore (no provision previously); Silver: Rs 1.5 crore; Bronze: Rs 1 crore
- National Games: Gold: Rs 7 lakh (no fixed amount previously); Silver: Rs 6 lakh; Bronze: Rs 5 lakh
This comprehensive policy aims to encourage athletes and curb the migration of talent from Bengal. The adoption of the National Sports Governance Act is expected to bring greater accountability and streamline sports administration in the state.
