Tamil Nadu government announces Rs 20 lakh cash award for Dipika Pallikal

Chennai: Tamil Nadu government on Monday announced a Rs 20 lakh cash award for squash player Dipika Pallikal for winning India's maiden women's singles medal, a bronze, at the Asian Games.

Lauding Pallikal, Chief Minister Jayalalithaa said in a letter to the player: "You have done us all proud once again by winning a bronze medal... I wish to convey my heartiest congratulations on behalf of the people of Tamil Nadu for your splendid achievement."

In line with her announcement in December 2011 that sportspersons from the state winning bronze medal in Asian games will be awarded Rs 20 lakh, Jayalalithaa said Pallikal will receive the cash incentive from the state government.

Congratulating the squash player and others who had contributed to her success, Jayalalithaa wished she brought more laurels to the country and the state in the future.