Himachal announces Rs 3 cr for Paralympic medallist Nishad, but he raises another demand
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DHARAMSHALA: The Himachal Pradesh government has announced a Rs 3 crore cash reward for Nishad Kumar, who won a silver medal at the Paralympics in Paris.
Chintpurni MLA Sudarshan Singh Bablu made the announcement during a welcome ceremony for Nishad in Amb, his hometown. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu himself is expected to present the cheque to Nishad during the Chintpurni Mahotsav, marking the state’s recognition of his achievement.
Bagged second Paralympic silver
Nishad, who brought home his second Paralympic silver, has not only brought pride to the state but also to the Chintpurni Assembly constituency. MLA Bablu, while lauding Nishad’s efforts, said, “Nishad has made the entire region proud, and we are honoured to have such a remarkable athlete among us.” He also promised to raise the demand for offering Nishad a government job with Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu.
Nishad raises demand for government job
However, amid the celebrations, Nishad Kumar highlighted a crucial demand that remains unmet. Despite the generous cash prize, he emphasised the need for the state government to offer him a government job, similar to policies in other states.
“Many states not only offer cash prizes but also secure government jobs for their athletes. Whenever players from other states ask me about my position, I feel embarrassed,” Nishad admitted during the ceremony.
He has formally requested the state government to create a policy that offers jobs to Paralympians who bring home medals. “A policy like this would give athletes more dignity and security beyond the prize money,” Nishad added.
His coach, Naseem Ahmed, who hails from Haryana, also echoed this sentiment. “In Haryana, athletes are honoured with more than just cash prizes. They receive government jobs that ensure long-term stability. As Nishad’s coach, I urge the Himachal government to grant him a Class 1 job in recognition of his achievements,” said Ahmed. He also expressed optimism that Nishad would aim for gold in the next Paralympics.
Comparisons with National and Other State Policies
This demand brings attention to the policies in other states, where athletes are not only awarded cash prizes but also given employment. Haryana, for instance, is known for honoring its athletes with government jobs, a model that Nishad and his coach believe should be adopted in Himachal Pradesh.
Rs 50 lakh from Centre
At the national level, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya recently announced cash awards for Indian Paralympians who excelled at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, with Rs 75 lakh for gold medallists, Rs 50 lakh for silver medallists and Rs 30 lakh for bronze winners. He also reaffirmed the government’s support for para-athletes as they aim for the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.
