ISLAMABAD, June 27 (TNF): The Government of Pakistan has awarded over Rs 90 million in cash prizes and grants to honour national athletes and sports federations for their achievements on international platforms. The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) organised the ceremony to recognise the athletes’ contributions in bringing pride to the nation.
In total, Rs 8.2 million was distributed among 36 athletes for their outstanding performances, while 22 sports federations received Rs 63.9 million in grants to support ongoing and future activities. The event was attended by Advisor to the Prime Minister on Inter-Provincial Coordination Rana Sanaullah Khan, Federal Secretary Mohiuddin Wani, and PSB Director General Muhammad Yasir Pirzada, who lauded the athletes for elevating Pakistan’s name globally.
Among the top recipients was javelin thrower Arshad Nadeem, who was awarded Rs 2 million for his gold medal-winning performance, while his coach Salman Iqbal Butt received Rs 600,000. Snooker stars Ahsan Ramzan and Muhammad Asif were each granted Rs 500,000 for securing medals at international championships, and Muhammad Naseem Akhtar earned Rs 100,000 for his bronze medal finish.
Emerging athletes also received recognition, including Abdul Mohammad Khan and his teammates from the U-15 and U-19 badminton squads, who were awarded between Rs 75,000 and Rs 250,000 each for their success at youth tournaments.
The PSB also allocated grants to sports federations aimed at strengthening athlete development and infrastructure. The Athletics Federation of Pakistan received the largest grant of Rs 10 million, while federations representing Kabaddi, Swimming, Wrestling, Volleyball, Judo, Karate, Table Tennis, and Tennis received grants ranging from Rs 1 million to Rs 5 million. The overall distribution included Rs 32.9 million in annual grants and Rs 31 million in special grants.
The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to promoting sports culture, supporting athlete training, and building the foundation for future sporting success.
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