Karnataka amps up athlete rewards and jobs: CM

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday reiterated his government’s determination to strengthen the sporting ecosystem across the state, promising enhanced incentives, structured employment opportunities and upgraded sports infrastructure for athletes at every level.

Speaking at the inauguration of the India International Challenge 2025 Badminton Tournament in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah emphasized that the state government is “leaving no stone unturned” in its mission to make sports as accessible and competitive in Karnataka as anywhere in the world.

Outlining recent initiatives, he noted that the sports quota in the police department has been increased from two to three per cent. “Just the other day, I was informed that 11 sportspersons have been appointed to the police service under this quota and have already received their joining orders,” he said.

The Chief Minister also highlighted Karnataka’s pioneering policy of offering substantial cash rewards to medal-winning athletes on the international stage. “Our government has announced Rs 5 crore for Olympic or global tournament gold medalists, Rs 3 crore for silver, and Rs 2 crore for bronze. We were the first state in India to introduce such generous incentives,” he added.

Reflecting on his interest in sports during his youth, Siddaramaiah said that although he could not excel as a player, he now takes pride in shaping progressive policies that can catapult young athletes toward greater achievements.

He further stressed that the government’s focus would remain on grassroots training, robust talent identification and establishing world-class facilities to nurture Karnataka’s next generation of sports champions.

The India International Challenge 2025 Badminton Tournament will run in the city until November 2, drawing participation from leading domestic and international shuttlers.