Scheme of Cash Incentive to Medal Winners in International Sports Events and their Coaches
Cash incentive for Indian medal winners at Olympics, Asian Games & international events
The Central Government rewards Indian athletes and their coaches who win medals at recognized international sports events with direct cash incentives, encouraging excellence in sports from grassroots to the global stage. The payout amount depends on the event (Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, etc.) and the number of competing countries. Athletes must apply through the Department of Sports within six months of the event.
About This Scheme
The Central Government rewards Indian athletes and their coaches who win medals at recognized international sports events with direct cash incentives, encouraging excellence in sports from grassroots to the global stage. The payout amount depends on the event (Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, etc.) and the number of competing countries. Athletes must apply through the Department of Sports within six months of the event.
Full official description
The "Scheme of Cash Incentives to Medal Winners in International Sports Events and their Coaches", implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports under the Department of Sports, Government of India, was introduced in 1986 to reward outstanding sportspersons for their achievements on the global stage. Over the years, the scheme has been revised to enhance its effectiveness. The latest amendment aims to streamline eligibility criteria, improve the disbursement process, incentivise higher achievements, and motivate athletes to serve as inspiring role models for the younger generation to take up sports.
Benefits
- Cash awards for medals at the Olympics, Paralympics, Asian Games, Para-Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games (specific amounts vary by medal).
- For other international events: full incentive if 12+ teams or 16+ individual countries competed; half for 6-11/8-15 countries; one-third for 4-5/4-7 countries.
- Coaches of medal-winning athletes are also eligible for cash incentives.
- No incentive if fewer than 4 teams/countries competed.
💡 Why Startups Should Care
Sportstech startups and athlete management platforms should incorporate scheme awareness into their tools — athletes often miss cash incentives due to paperwork delays, and a platform that helps file timely claims within the 6-month window adds real value.
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Open to athletes who win medals in specified sports disciplines at recognized international events.
- The event must have a minimum of 4 teams/countries participating for any incentive to apply.
- Full incentive requires 12+ countries for team events or 16+ for individual events.
- Application must be submitted within six months of the event — late applications are strictly not accepted.
How to Apply
- Submit the application through the Department of Sports' designated portal within 6 months of the event
- If all details are already available with the department, processing may be initiated automatically
- Provide medal proof, identity documents, and bank details
- Include coach details to ensure the coach incentive is processed alongside the athlete award
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cash Incentive Scheme?
It provides cash rewards to Indian sportspersons and their coaches for winning medals in international events.
Which ministry implements this scheme?
The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Department of Sports, Government of India.
Who is eligible for the cash incentive?
Indian sportspersons who win medals in recognized international events are eligible.
Are coaches eligible for cash incentives?
Yes, coaches of medal-winning athletes receive 50% of the sportsperson’s incentive.
Which events are included?
All international sports events, except Olympics, Paralympics, Asian Games, Para-Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games, have a separate incentive structure.
How is the incentive calculated?
It depends on the number of participating countries and whether it is a team or individual event.
Can a sportsperson get cash for multiple medals?
Yes, for Olympics, Paralympics, Asian Games, and Para-Asian Games, each medal is eligible; for other events, only the highest medal counts.
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- Proof of medal/participation
- Identity proof (Aadhaar, passport, or ID)
- Bank account details
- Event participation certificate
- Coach details