CM Vijay Announces Rs 30 Lakh Each for Squash Players Joshna Chinappa, Shameena Riyaz

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay on Thursday announced a cash incentive of Rs 30 lakh each for squash players Joshna Chinappa and Shameena Riyaz for their contribution to India's bronze medal-winning women's team at the 20th Asian Games in Japan.

Anahat Singh, Tanvi Khanna, Joshna Chinappa and Shameena Riyaz were part of the Indian squad that secured the bronze medal in the women's squash team event.

Congratulating the players, Vijay said the team's achievement had further enhanced Tamil Nadu's standing in international sports.

"I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the Indian team, which has achieved a historic feat by winning a bronze medal in the women's squash team event at the 20th Asian Games in Japan, and to Tamil Nadu squash players Joshna Chinappa and Shameena Riyaz, who are part of that team," Vijay said in a post on X.

"In recognition of their achievement, the state government will provide Rs 30 lakh to each player," he added.

The chief minister said the players' success was the result of perseverance, talent and self-confidence, and described them as role models for aspiring sportspersons in Tamil Nadu.

He said their achievement would inspire young men and women seeking to excel in sports and expressed hope that they would win more laurels for Tamil Nadu and India on the international stage.

The cash award is part of the Tamil Nadu government's policy of rewarding athletes from the state who win medals at national and international competitions.

Both Chinappa and Riyaz hail from Chennai. They represented India at the Asian Games and were recognised by the Sports Development Authority of Tamil Nadu for their medal-winning performance.

The incentive comes as Tamil Nadu continues to promote sports and provide financial recognition to athletes who achieve success at major national and international competitions.