SportsPosted at: Oct 3 2026 1:00PM


Poovamma flags low Karnataka reward for Asian Games gold

Mangaluru, Oct 3 (UNI) Asian Games gold medallist MR Poovamma has questioned Karnataka's reward system for sportspersons, saying the state's Rs 35 lakh cash prize for a gold medal pales in comparison with the incentives offered by other states and called for better recognition and facilities for athletes.
The veteran athlete, who returned to Mangaluru after being part of India's gold-winning women's 4x400m relay team at the Asian Games in Japan, also expressed disappointment over the Karnataka government's initial failure to contact her after the landmark victory.
Poovamma, who was accorded a warm welcome by sports enthusiasts, friends and athletics organisations at Mangaluru airport, said the Asian Games gold was her sixth medal across three editions of the continental event.
"I am very happy. This is my sixth medal in the three Asian Games I have participated in. This time, our 4x400 women's relay team won the gold. I felt very proud when I heard the national anthem playing at the stadium," she said.
However, the celebrations were accompanied by her disappointment over what she described as inadequate recognition from the state government.
Poovamma said athletes from other states were promptly contacted by their Chief Ministers and Sports Ministers after winning medals, whereas she initially received no such call from Karnataka.
"Initially, I did not receive any calls. After seeing the media reports, Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and Deputy Chief Minister G Parameshwara called and spoke to me," she said.
She then highlighted the disparity in cash incentives, saying Karnataka's Rs 35 lakh reward for an Asian Games gold was far below the Rs 3 crore offered by Haryana.
"Competitors from other states ask, 'Didi, what are you getting?' It feels bad. I have worked in sports for the last 22-23 years. This is the first gold medal Karnataka has won in these Asian Games," Poovamma said.
She urged the state government to increase both cash incentives and sports infrastructure, saying better support would encourage the next generation of athletes.
"This will be a big support for the young athletes who are coming up," she said.
Poovamma also acknowledged the role of her parents, husband and coaches in her career and said she had not yet decided on her next move.
Following her remarks, Shivakumar called Poovamma, congratulated her on the achievement and invited her to meet him on October 6.
Poovamma, who has trained at Bengaluru's Sree Kanteerava Stadium, said winning the gold and hearing the Indian national anthem was a moment of immense pride.
UNI BDN
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