Olympic bronze medalist Swapnil Kusale’s father says his son should get prize money of ₹5 crore, flat rate in Pune

Paris Olympics bronze medalist’s father Swapnil Kusale has expressed disappointment over the Maharashtra government paying prize money of Rs 2 million to his son, saying that Haryana is paying a much higher amount to its athletes pays out.

Swapnil Kusale (29), who hails from Kolhapur, won a bronze medal in the 50m rifle three-position event at the Paris Olympics in August. His father Suresh Kusale on Monday said his son should get prize money of Rs 5 crore and an apartment near Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Sports Complex in Balewadi, Pune.

Speaking to reporters in Kolhapur, Suresh Kusale claimed, “Haryana government gives Rs 5 crore to each (Olympic medalist) (Haryana gives Rs 6 crore to a gold medalist, Rs 4 crore to a silver medalist and Rs 2.5 crore to a bronze medalist). winner).” “As per a new policy announced by the Maharashtra government, an Olympic bronze medalist will get Rs 2 crore. Why is the state setting such criteria when Swapnil was only the second individual Olympic medalist from Maharashtra (after wrestler KD Jadhav in 1952 )? in 72 years?” he asked.

“…I would have persuaded him to pursue a career in another sport.”

Five individuals won medals for India at the Paris Olympics, four of whom were from Haryana and one, Swapnil Kusale, from Maharashtra. Haryana is a much smaller state compared to Maharashtra but gives higher prize money to its medalists, he said.

“However, our government has announced Rs 5 crore for a gold medalist, Rs 3 crore for a silver medalist and Rs 2 crore for a bronze medalist. Why is there such a criterion when only two players from Maharashtra have won individual Olympic medals so far for many years?” asked Suresh Kusale.

“If I had known such a result, I would have persuaded him to pursue a career in another sport. Is the amount kept low because Swapnil comes from a humble background? Would the reward amount have remained the same if he was the son of an MLA or a minister?” he wondered.

Suresh Kusale also said that the 50-meter three-position rifle shooting arena at the sports complex (in Pune) should be named after his son.

“Swapnil should be given Rs 5 crore as an award, an apartment near Balewadi Sports Stadium so that he can easily commute for training. Swapnil’s name should be given to the 50-meter three-position rifle shooting arena,” he said when asked about his demands.

After his performance in Paris, the top marksman was promoted by his employer, Central Railway, and appointed an officer on special duty.

The Maharashtra government recently announced that it will double the prize money for players who win medals in major sporting events including the Olympics, World Championships and Asian Games, among others.