AI SummaryScheme of Pension for Eminent Sports Persons is a state-level scheme by the government of Punjab that gives monthly financial support to veteran athletes who performed well at international competitions, offering them long-term security after they retire from sport.
The Department of Sports, government of Punjab runs this scheme through the Punjab State Sports Council. As of August 2026, around 125 veteran sportspersons are getting this monthly pension, and the department has a proposal to review the pension rates in the near future.
Scheme of Pension for Eminent Sports Persons - Introduction
Scheme of Pension for Eminent Sports Persons is a dedicated scheme by the Department of Sports, government of Punjab, to support distinguished veteran athletes. By giving this pension, the state recognises those who spent their youth competing at the international level and brought pride to the nation.
This scheme is a main part of the Punjab State Sports Council's work to lift the morale of athletes. It sends a clear message to young talent that the state values their commitment and gives concrete, lifelong financial support. Since many sportspersons give up regular career options during their prime training years, this monthly pension acts as a helpful layer of security for their future.
Duration of Pension: The pension is granted for life. If the pensioner passes away, the benefit continues to the widow, minor child or children of the pensioner.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Scheme of Pension for Eminent Sports Persons |
|---|---|
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Punjab |
| Category | Sports and Culture, Banking, Financial Services and Insurance |
| Target Beneficiaries | Individual |
| Sub Category | Pension |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Main Department | Department of Sports and Youth Services |
| Department Running the Scheme | Department of Sports, Government of Punjab |
| Tags | Pension, Eminent, Sports Person, Sports |
Benefits
The monthly pension amount depends on the level of competition. Below is the breakdown of the financial support given through this scheme:
| Competition Level | Monthly Pension Amount |
|---|---|
| Olympic Games | ₹1000 |
| Official World Cup | ₹1000 |
| Davis Cup in Tennis | ₹1000 |
| Test Matches / One Day International in Cricket | ₹1000 |
| Commonwealth Games | ₹600 |
| Asian Games | ₹600 |
Mode of Payment: The government sends the pension funds directly to the bank accounts of the eligible people through cross bank checks.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this pension, the following points must be met:
- The applicant must have represented national teams in recognised events such as Olympic Games, Official World Cup, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, Davis Cup in Tennis, or Test / One Day International cricket matches.
- The applicant should have reached the age of 40 years.
- The applicant must be a domicile of Punjab. It does not matter whether the person represented the state of Punjab in national games, as long as they brought honours to the nation or state.
- The applicant remains eligible for this state pension even if they are already receiving a separate sports pension from the government of India.
Application Process
Application for this scheme is done through an offline process. The steps are given below.
STEP 1 - Visit the office of the local District Sports Officer, who also acts as the Secretary of the District Sports Council.
STEP 2 - Get the official application form free of cost from the office.
STEP 3 - Fill out the form with the correct details, making sure all information is clear and accurate.
STEP 4 - Submit the completed form along with the supporting documents to the District Sports Officer-cum-Secretary.
After submission, the District Sports Officer verifies the records and achievements. Once satisfied, the application is forwarded to the Secretary of the Punjab State Sports Council for final approval.
Documents
The following documents should be ready while applying:
- A valid copy of identity proof.
- Recent passport-size photographs.
- Official proof of age.
- Bank passbook details.
- Certificates and documents supporting the sports achievements.
- Any other relevant documents asked by the department.
References
For more schemes, see the list of Punjab government schemes.
FAQ's
What is the purpose of Scheme of Pension for Eminent Sports Persons?
This scheme gives reliable, lifelong financial support to veteran athletes who performed well at the international stage, acknowledging the sacrifices they made during their athletic careers.
Who is eligible for pension under this scheme?
Athletes who represented national teams in events like the Olympics, World Cups, Commonwealth Games, Asian Games, Davis Cup, or international cricket are eligible.
What is the age criterion for getting the pension benefit?
A person becomes eligible to apply for this benefit once they reach 40 years of age.
Is the scheme exclusive to those who represented Punjab in National Games?
No, all Punjab-domiciled athletes who brought honours to the state or nation are eligible, regardless of their participation in state-level national games.
Can individuals receiving sports pension from the government of India apply for this scheme?
Yes, a person can receive this pension even if they are already getting a sports pension from the central government.
What is the duration of the pension?
The pension is granted for life. If the pensioner passes away, the benefit continues to the widow, minor child or children of the pensioner.
How can one apply for pension under this scheme?
The application form can be picked up from the District Sports Officer, and the filled form along with the required documents is submitted to the same office.
What documents are required to support the application?
The application should be accompanied by sports achievement certificates, age proof, bank details, and an identity card.