KATHMANDU: The government has honored Palesha Goverdhan, a Paralympic athlete, for her historic achievement at the Paris 2024 Paralympics with a cash prize today.
Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli presented Rs 6.5 million (tax-free) to the para-taekwondo player in recognition of her historic performance.
Palesha clinched the first bronze medal for the country at the Paris Paralympics.
Earlier, on September 5 (Bhadra 20), the Council of Ministers decided to honor the 21-year-old athlete.
The prize distribution ceremony took place at a special event at the Prime Minister’s official residence, Baluwatar, organized by the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
The government also awarded her coach, Kabiraj Negi Lama, a cash prize of Rs 585,000 and her team manager, Ramchandra Shrestha, Rs 292,000.
On the occasion, the Prime Minister announced that the decision to exempt the prize amount from taxes for athletes aims to encourage the sports sector.
He expressed hope that the government would achieve further success on the international stage, stating, “Palesha’s achievement represents the highest sports award for the country and is a source of pride for Nepal.”
Minister for Youth and Sports Tejulal Chaudhary, Secretary Suman Raj Aryal, National Sports Council Member Secretary Tankalal Ghishing, and officials from the Nepal Taekwondo Association were present at the event.
The Minister pledged to support Palesha’s pursuit of higher education and her participation in the upcoming Asian Games.
