The government announced Wednesday that a total cash reward of Rs. 90 lakh will be offered to the medallists of Rio Paralympics. Paralympic high jumper Mariyappan Thangavelu and javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia, both of whom won gold medals, will be awarded Rs. 30 lakh each. Silver medallist in shot put, Deepa Malik will be awarded Rs. 20 lakh, while Rs. 10 lakh will be given to Varun Singh Bhati who won a bronze in high jump.

The cash prize will be dispensed by the ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It will be handed out by Minister Thawar Chand Gehlot under the Awareness Generation and Publicity (AGP) scheme.

"Indian para-athletes bagged impressive four medals at the Rio Paralympics 2016 and made history. The success of para-athletes has made India proud. The department has decided to give a cash prize of total Rs. 90 lakh to the medal winners," said Mr. Gehlot.