ISLAMABAD (Kashmir English): The Pakistan Sports Board (PSB) has officially increased cash rewards for athletes who win medals at international events, offering record-high incentives under its newly approved Cash Award Policy.
During its 34th board meeting, the PSB decided to raise the prize money across various global sporting competitions including the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, World and Asian Championships, as well as events like the Paralympics and Deaflympics.
According to the updated policy, Olympic gold medalists will now receive Rs 30 million, up from the previous Rs 10 million. Silver medal winners will be awarded around Rs 20 million, while bronze medalists will get Rs 10 million. This is seen as a major step to motivate athletes aiming for international glory.
At the Asian Games, cash rewards have also been raised significantly. Gold medalists will earn Rs 10.5 to 15 million, silver winners will get Rs 7 million, and bronze medalists will receive Rs 5 million.
Similarly, Commonwealth Games medalists will benefit from the increase. Gold winners will now take home Rs 7.5 million, silver Rs 5 million, and bronze Rs 3 million.
The PSB has also introduced a tiered payment system for World and Asian Championships, based on how frequently the events are held. For example:
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Champions of four-year events will get Rs 7.5 million
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Biennial winners will receive Rs 5 million
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Annual titleholders will earn Rs 3 million
The new policy also recognizes achievements in specific sports like snooker and squash. For instance, winners of the IBSF World Snooker Championship will be awarded Rs 1.5 million, while squash champions of global events like the British Open will receive up to Rs 10 million.
This move by the PSB aims to support athletes financially and encourage greater participation in sports at an international level. Coaches and athletes in team events will also benefit from increased support under the revised policy.
