New Delhi, Oct 25: The Sports Ministry on Monday (October 24) gave away cash awards to the medal winners of Rio Olympics and Paralympics.

The funds were distributed under the central government scheme of special awards to medal winners in international sports events.

High Jumper Mariyappan Thangavelu and Javelin thrower Devendra Jhajharia, who clinched golds at the Paralympics received Rs. 75 lakh each, according to a release.

Silver medal-winning para athlete Shot Putter Deepa Malik received Rs.50 lakh as did second placed shuttler at the Olympics PV Sindhu.

Disabled athlete High Jumper Varun Singh Bhati, who won bronze, received Rs.30 lakh along with third-placed women's wrestler at the Olympics Sakshi Malik.

IANS