Last Updated on November 11, 2021 11: 44pm
The Union sports ministry has sanctioned Rs 5 lakh to the family of the deceased footballer from Manipur, Manitombi Singh.
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The sports ministry on Friday sanctioned the amount to ease the financial crisis of the deceased footballer’s family.
Former India defender and Mohun Bagan captain Manitombi Singh died on August 9, 2020 at the age of 39.
Also read: Manipur: Former India and Mohun Bagan player Manitombi Singh dies due to prolonged illness
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He was the only earning member of his family and is survived by his wife and a son.
The former Mohun Bagan player was part of the Hindustan FC team that won the Delhi Soccer Association league title in 2010.
Speaking about the decision of the ministry, Union sports & youth affairs minister Kiren Rijiju said, “Manitombi has contributed significantly to Indian football. He also contributed as a coach in Manipur.”
“His demise is indeed a loss for the sporting community. When we learnt about the financial crisis that the family is facing after his death, extending support to them was a duty upon us,” Rijiju said.
“It is of prime importance for the government to support all our athletes, past and present, as well as those who have dedicated their life to sport as coaches, sports administrators, support staff and in similar roles,” he added.
The grant of Rs 5 lakh was sanctioned under the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for sportspersons.
“The sports ministry has been consistently helping athletes in need of financial support through this fund, and invites athletes and others who have worked in the field of sport, to apply for financial assistance through this scheme,” the ministry said.