Sportspersons more popular than politicians: OP Dhankar

CHANDIGARH: Sportspersons are more popular than politicians and their popularity is reflected in the welcome accorded to them after winning medals in international competitions, Haryana Minister O P Dhankar said here today.

"Sportspersons are more popular than politicians. Crowd gather to get themselves photographed with the sportspersons (when they return to the country after winning medals)," he was quoted as saying in a release.

Dhankar said this at the inaugural ceremony of the three- day 28th Senior National Circle Kabaddi Championship for men and women organised by Amateur Circle Kabaddi Federation of India at Panjab University grounds here.

Haryana Education Minister, Ram Bilas Sharma was also present on the occasion.

Dhankar said the sportspersons motivate others through their patience and discipline.

He announced to give Rs 11 lakh to the Federation from his discretionary funds.

"Sharma announced to give Rs 11,000 to each team participating in the championship, besides, Rs 11,000 to Kulbir Singh for his outstanding commentary during the first match," the release said.

As many as 19 teams, including those representing Haryana, Punjab, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Vidarbha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Delhi, Puducherry and Kerala, are participating in the championship.