Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik today announced a special incentive of Rs 60 lakh for the six Odia sportswomen who have qualified to participate in the forthcoming Rio Olympics to be held from August 5 to 21. The six sportswomen are: athletes Srabani Nanda, Dutee Chand and hockey players Deep Grace Ekka, Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz and Sunita Lakra.

This is a matter of pride for Odisha and every Odia. In order to encourage them in this moment of glory, the state government has announced this special incentive amount. Each sportsperson will be provided with financial assistance of Rs 10 lakh.

Keeping with the direction Odisha of the Chief Minister, Odisha Mining Corporation (OMC) will immediately release the amount to the sportspersons, said an official release issued by the Office of the Chief Minister today.

The release stated: The Chief Minister said this financial assistance will help the sportspersons in their preparations for the Olympics. The Chief Minister has expressed hope that Odia sportspersons will be highly successful in the Olympics and bring glory to state as well as the country.

Similarly, the Chief Minister has directed the Sports department to enhance the incentive amount for sportspersons qualifying for Olympics from existing Rs 50,000 and Rs 1 lakh for group and individual events respectively to Rs 5 lakh.