Tamil Nadu CM Announces ₹50 Lakh Reward as Kasthuri Rajamani Wins Silver at Asian Para Games

Kasthuri Rajamani secured a silver medal in the women’s 67 kg powerlifting event at the 5th Asian Para Games in Japan, prompting Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to pledge a ₹50 lakh incentive. Vijay posted the news on X, saying the medal brings pride to both the state and India. The government’s reward aims to recognise her achievement and support her future training. Vijay also congratulated the Indian men’s badminton doubles pair for winning silver, highlighting Tamil Nadu player Sivarajan Solaimalai’s role in the team. In the same X post, he announced an identical ₹50 lakh incentive for Solaimalai’s performance. Both awards are part of the state’s effort to encourage athletes who excel on the international stage. The 5th Asian Para Games, currently being held in Japan, feature athletes with disabilities competing across dozens of sports. Tamil Nadu’s representation this year includes Rajamani in powerlifting and Solaimalai in badminton, underscoring the state’s growing presence in para‑sport.

Context

Tamil Nadu routinely offers cash rewards to medal‑winning sportspersons, a policy aimed at motivating talent and improving the state’s performance in national and international competitions.