Context:

=> Ashok Gehlot, the Chief Minister of Rajasthan has announced that Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award will be introduced in the state for various sportspersons.

=> The Rajasthan government is taking big decisions to develop sports in the state, and the incentive amounts received by the medal-winners will increase with time.

What did the Chief Minister inaugurate?

=> The Chief Minister also inaugurated:

• Rajasthan High-Performance Sports and Rehabilitation Centre
• Renovated Synthetic Hockey Astro Turf
• Badminton Indoor Hall, Olympic

=> He also awarded the players of the Commonwealth Games 2022, the Asian Games 2022, and the medalists of Para Olympic.

When will the Rajiv Gandhi Rural Olympics begin?

• On 29th August 2022, the Rajiv Gandhi Rural Olympics will begin.
• In this event, over 27 lakh players of all ages will be taking part.
• This event will be utilized by the state as a platform for talent hunting and will also create a sporting atmosphere.
• The winners of the Rural Olympics will be given priority in the recruitment of vacant posts in the state’s Panchayat cadre.
• The torch of the Rural Olympics was also launched by the CM at the ceremony.

What online portal has been launched?

• The chief minister announced that the medal-winning players will not be required to visit the Sports Council for receiving grant money.
• An online portal has been launched by the State Government to make this process easy and accessible.
• Around 229 players in Rajasthan who have excelled in various sports have been appointed to various government services by the state government under the out-of-turn policy.
• Also, a 2 per cent reservation has been made for the players.
• Pension will also be awarded to the Dronacharya and Arjuna awardees along with Para Olympic, Olympic, Commonwealth and Asian Games medal-winners.

By: ASRAF UDDIN AHMED