Chief Minister MK Stalin presented substantial financial incentives totaling Rs 1.9 crore to three accomplished sportswomen from Tamil Nadu who excelled at the 7th Carrom World Cup, held from December 2 to 6 in Male, Maldives. The international tournament witnessed strong performances from Indian participants, with players from Tamil Nadu making significant contributions to the nation's dominance in the women's events. This recognition by the state government highlights its proactive approach in acknowledging achievements in lesser-highlighted sports such as carrom.
The incentives were allocated based on the medallists' performances: Rs 1 crore to L Keerthana for securing triple gold medals in the women's singles, doubles (in partnership with Kajal Kumari), and the team event; Rs 50 lakh to M Khazima for her bronze in singles alongside medals in doubles and team categories; and Rs 40 lakh to V Mithra for her gold in the team event and silver in doubles. Keerthana and Khazima received their cheques directly from the Chief Minister during a formal ceremony at the Secretariat, underscoring the personal appreciation extended by the state leadership.
During the same event, members of the victorious Indian squad from the SDAT Squash World Cup 2025 visited the Chief Minister to share their triumph. The tournament, organized by the Indian Squash Academy and hosted in Chennai from December 9 to 14, marked India's inaugural victory in the competition, achieved through a decisive 3-0 win against Hong Kong China in the final. The delegation included prominent players Joshna Chinappa, Abhay Singh, Anahat Singh, and Velavan Senthilkumar, as well as Squash Championship Director Cyrus Poncha and coach Harinder Pal Singh, who were all commended for their role in this milestone on home ground.
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Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin also presented the award for Best State Promoting Sports Development, which was conferred on Tamil Nadu at the 3rd CII Sports Business Awards 2025 in Delhi on December 9. This accolade acknowledges the state's extensive efforts in promoting sports at the grassroots level, developing infrastructure, and ensuring inclusive support for athletes, including those in para-sports categories.
These initiatives collectively demonstrate the Tamil Nadu government's steadfast dedication to advancing sporting excellence across diverse disciplines, through financial rewards, enhanced facilities, and strategic policies aimed at empowering athletes to compete and succeed on global platforms.
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