Lovely Professional University (LPU) on Thursday announced a cash reward of Rs 25 lakhs for its student Vinesh Phogat who participated yet failed to qualify for the Olympics finals for being slightly overweight, leaving the nation dejected.  

Although the money was set aside for an Olympian who would bag silver in the games which is held in Paris, the decision to give it to Phogat comes as a recognition of her efforts.

“This decision comes as a testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to its student-athletes, even in the face of disappointment,” LPU said in a statement.

A disappointed Phogat who will not be eligible to win silver either has announced her retirement from wrestling after she was disqualified for being 100 grams overweight for the 50 kilos category in which she was contesting.

Dr Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor of LPU, expressed, “For us, Vinesh is still a medal winner. Her dedication and skill throughout her journey deserve recognition, and we are proud to award her the promised prize money of Rs 25 lakhs, which was reserved for silver medalists.”

LPU has also announced a comprehensive cash reward program for students who win medals at the Paris Olympics. Gold medalists will receive Rs 50 lakhs, silver medalists will receive Rs 25 lakhs and bronze medalists will receive Rs 10 lakhs.

As many as 24 students from LPU are representing the nation in various sports disciplines, including javelin, wrestling, hockey, athletics, weightlifting, shooting, and boxing. This contingent accounts for 21% of the overall Indian team, making LPU the second-largest contingent globally after Stanford University (USA), according to a release from the varsity. 

Also read: LPU student wins Gold at Shooting World Cup in Korea