PHAGWARA, AUG 7 : In a heartwarming gesture, Lovely Professional University (LPU) has announced a cash reward of Rs 25 lakhs for its student Vinesh Phogat, despite her recent disqualification from the Paris Olympics 2024. The university had reserved the money for silver medallist winners, and this decision underscores LPU’s unwavering commitment to its student-athletes.

Phogat, a promising wrestler and LPU student, had earlier made history as the first Indian woman to reach the final of a wrestling event at the Olympic Games. However, she was disqualified due to being found overweight by a narrow margin of just 100 grams during the weigh-in on the competition morning.

Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor of LPU, remarked, “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.”

The university’s support extends beyond Phogat, as LPU has introduced a comprehensive cash reward programme for its students participating in the Paris Olympics. Gold medallists will receive Rs 50 lakhs, silver medallists Rs 25 lakhs, and bronze medallists Rs 10 lakhs.

LPU has a significant presence at the Paris Olympics, with 24 students representing India in various sports disciplines, including javelin, wrestling, hockey, athletics, weightlifting, shooting, and boxing. This contingent represents 21 per cent of the overall Indian team, making LPU the second-largest contingent globally after Stanford University (USA).

The university’s support for its student-athletes is evident in its substantial investment in sports infrastructure, including an Olympic-size all-weather indoor swimming pool, diving pool, warming pool, 16 badminton courts, multiple squash courts, basketball courts, a shooting range, and more. Additionally, LPU offers 100 per cent scholarships to promising athletes, ensuring their holistic development.

LPU’s student-athletes have consistently excelled in previous Asian Games, with Kho-Kho team captain Nasreen Sheikh receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award. The university also clinched the first runner-up position for the Maka Trophy, becoming the first private university to achieve this honour.(UNI)