Instructions for Curbing the Tendency amongst Sportspersons for giving Preference to Playing in Prize Money Tournaments Rather in Tournaments where India Participates for Medals

Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has written to the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and National Sports Federations (NSFs) to curb the tendency amongst sportspersons for giving preference to playing in prize money tournaments rather in tournaments where India participates for medals rather than cash awards. 

In a communication sent to DG, SAI and Presidents/Secretary Generals of all recognized National Sports Federations, the Ministry has said that of late it has been noticed that sports persons, belonging to various sports disciplines prefer to play in prize money tournaments and avoid playing in tournaments where India as a team participates for medals rather than cash awards. 

The letter said, individual players will be able to avail grants given to NSFs by the Ministry only if they undertake to play in Indian team when called upon to do so without reservations. If there are specific exigencies because of which they are unable to play, this should be verified by the concerned NSF which thereupon can make an exception at their discretion. 

The Ministry has asked the NSFs to give wide publicity to these instructions and take necessary steps to ensure compliance.  (PIB)