State PCS - Haryana (HCS)

• 21 Apr 2025

Haryana Government Launches Medical Insurance Scheme for State Players

Why In News? 

Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Sain announced ₹20 lakh medical insurance to every player in the state. The announcement was made during the inauguration of 3rd All India Shiv Kumar Smriti Basketball Competition held in Kiloi village, Rohtak. 

Note:  

• The All India Shiv Kumar Smriti Basketball Competition is a tribute to Late Sh. Shiv Kumar, who was remembered for his dedication to sports and social service. 
• A special grant of ₹21 lakh was announced for the development of Shiv Kumar Smriti Stadium. 

Key Points 

• Medical Insurance for Athletes: 
  • All registered players in Haryana will receive medical insurance worth ₹20 lakh. 
  • This is aimed at ensuring financial support in case of injuries or medical emergencies. 
• Promotion of Sports Through Policy Reforms: 
  • Haryana Utkrisht Khiladi Seva Niyam 2021 has been implemented to provide job security and support to athletes. 
    • 550 new posts created in the Sports Department. 
    • 224 athletes already appointed to government jobs. 
    • Reservation in direct recruitment from Class-I to Class-III government posts. 
  • Haryana offers the highest cash rewards to medal-winning players in India. So far, ₹593 crore has been awarded as prize money 298 athletes are receiving regular honorariums. 
• Support for Young Athletes: 
  • 1,489 sports nurseries are active across the state, training 37,225 young athletes. 
  • Monthly stipends: 
    • ₹1,500 for athletes aged 8–14 years. 
    • ₹2,000 for those aged 15–19 years. 
  • Since 2014: 
    • ₹53.45 crore in scholarships awarded to 29,000+ students. 
    • Sports equipment distributed to 15,634 players. 
• Compulsory Sports in Schools: 
  • Sports are being made mandatory in schools to ensure balanced physical and mental development from an early age. 
  • Aim: Promote sports not just as a profession, but also as a way of life. 
  • Emphasis was laid on the role of sports like basketball in building qualities such as teamwork, discipline, quick decision-making and strategic thinking. 
  • Sports are seen as essential in creating a healthy, active, and aware society. 

Haryana Utkrisht Khiladi Seva Niyam 2021 

• Haryana Utkrisht Khiladi Seva Niyam 2021 is a policy introduced by the Haryana government to promote sports, support athletes, and secure their future through job opportunities, financial assistance, and recognition.  
• It is a comprehensive step toward making sports a sustainable and respected career path in the state. 
• Key Features of the Policy: 
  • Government Jobs for Athletes: 
    • 550 new posts created in the Sports Department. 
    • 224 sportspersons have already been appointed to government positions. 
  • Reservation in Recruitment:  
    • Athletes get reservation in direct recruitment for Group A to Group D posts in the state government. 
  • Highest Cash Rewards in India: 
    • Haryana provides the highest cash prizes to medal-winners at various levels. 
  • Monthly Honorarium: 
    • So far 298 top-performing athletes have received an honorarium for their achievements. 
  • Scholarship Support: 
    • Since 2014, ₹53.45 crore in scholarships has been distributed to over 29,000 students who have performed well in sports.