Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary . Photo: Aftab Alam Siddiqui
By A Correspondent
Patna: In a significant move aimed at providing dignified employment opportunities to sportspersons, the Bihar government has approved a new policy aligning jobs with athletes’ achievements. The state Cabinet has cleared the draft notification for the Bihar Outstanding Sportspersons Direct Appointment (Amendment) Rules, 2026.
Welcoming the decision, Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh said the government remains committed to ensuring a bright future and socio-economic empowerment for athletes. She noted that creating clear and improved job pathways for those excelling in sports has been a key priority.
Under the revised rules, athletes who have won gold, silver or bronze medals at the Olympic Games will be eligible for appointment at Pay Level-09 (Grade Pay ₹5400). The same level will also apply to players who have represented India in any Olympic sport, as well as those who have represented the country in any format of cricket. In addition, gold medallists from the Asian Games and the Commonwealth Games will also qualify for this category.
Similarly, athletes who have represented India in any format of sports included in the Asian Games or Commonwealth Games, along with silver and bronze medallists from these events, will be appointed at Pay Level-07 (Grade Pay ₹4600).
Furthermore, players who have secured gold or silver medals in any format of the National Games or Senior National Championships will be eligible for appointments at Pay Level-06 (Grade Pay ₹4200).
Speaking on the occasion, the Sports Minister said that athletes from Bihar have consistently proven their talent on national and international platforms. “Through this revised policy, we are ensuring that those who perform exceptionally receive due recognition for their hard work and dedication,” she said. She expressed confidence that the move would not only motivate current athletes but also inspire millions of young people in the state to pursue sports as a career.
She added that the government is continuously working to improve sports infrastructure, training facilities and overall welfare of athletes. The new policy is expected to serve as a major boost in encouraging sports as a viable career option.
The initiative is also likely to simplify the pathway for talented athletes to secure government jobs, while strengthening the overall sports culture in Bihar.
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