Haryana Government Announces Olympic Benefits Equal to Silver Medalist for Vinesh Phogat

The Haryana Cabinet has officially announced benefits for wrestler and Congress MLA Vinesh Phogat, fulfilling an earlier promise to reward her equivalent to an Olympic silver medalist following her disqualification at the Paris Olympics.

Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini confirmed the decision, stating that according to the state's sports policy, silver medalists receive a Rs 4 crore cash award, a Group A outstanding sportsperson job, and a residential plot. However, since Phogat is currently serving as an MLA, the Chief Minister noted that she would need to choose among these benefits. 

"As per the sports policy, silver medallists receive Rs 4 crore cash award, Group A outstanding sportspersons job, and a plot. Now that she is an MLA, she will have to choose among the benefits," said CM Saini during the announcement.

Cabinet Makes Key Decisions on Municipal Employment

During the same cabinet meeting, several other important decisions were made. The government approved the classification of Group A, B, C, and D posts in urban local bodies, similar to the structure in government departments.

According to the new system, Group A and B positions will be filled through the Haryana Public Service Commission (HPSC), while Group C and D positions will be recruited through the Haryana Staff Selection Commission (HSSC). 

"This decision will provide promotion reservations and other benefits to municipal employees similar to government department employees," explained CM Saini during a press conference.

Currently, there are 31,533 sanctioned posts across 87 municipalities in the state, including 11 municipal corporations, 23 municipal councils, and 53 municipal committees.

Other Cabinet Decisions

The cabinet also approved a revised format for the One-Time Settlement Scheme for recovering outstanding dues, designed to benefit small taxpayers. Under this scheme, applicants with cumulative outstanding tax dues up to Rs 10 lakh will receive a waiver of Rs 1 lakh. Interested applicants can opt for the scheme within 180 days from the appointed day.

Additionally, following a positive response from entrepreneurs, the government has decided to extend the operative period of the Haryana AatmaNirbhar Textile Policy and its subsequent schemes by one year, until December 18, 2026.