ITANAGAR, Aug 30 -�Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu gave away cash prizes to 116 sportspersons from the State who have won laurels representing Arunachal in their respective disciplines in various tournaments held during the last few years.
A State Government initiative, cash incentives are given to deserving sportspersons on the occasion of National Sports Day celebrated across the country on August 29 every year.
Weightlifter Jumjang Deru walked away with an incentive of Rs 16.5 lakh for his exploits � the highest amongst all sportspersons. Last December, Deru had created a new national record in clean and jerk event in men�s 62 kg category with a lift of 153 kg to secure gold in the Senior National Weightlifting Championships.
Congratulating the sportspersons, Khandu assured the Government�s commitment to the welfare of sportspersons and development of sports. �In fact the North East is a major contributor in the field of sports in the country. We have immense talent in our youths. The only thing needed is proper guidance, best of training and basic facilities,� he said. Khandu also informed that the State Sports Policy will be launched soon.
