In a heartwarming gesture, Lovely Professional University (LPU) has announced a cash reward of ₹25 lakhs for its student Vinesh Phogat. This award was initially reserved for students winning silver medals at the Paris Olympics. Despite her recent disqualification from the 2024 Paris Olympics, the university has decided to honor its commitment, showcasing its unwavering support for student-athletes even in times of disappointment.
Vinesh Phogat, a promising wrestler and LPU student, made history as the first Indian woman to reach the final of an Olympic wrestling event. However, a heartbreaking disqualification occurred due to her being overweight by a mere 100 grams during the weigh-in on the competition day.
LPU has stood firmly behind Vinesh during this challenging time. Dr. Ashok Kumar Mittal, Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Founder Chancellor of LPU, stated, “For us, Vinesh is still a medal winner. Her dedication and skill throughout her journey deserve recognition, and we are proud to award her the promised prize money of ₹25 lakhs, which was reserved for silver medalists.”
LPU’s commitment extends beyond Vinesh Phogat. The university has announced a comprehensive cash reward program for all medal-winning students at the Paris Olympics. Gold medalists will receive ₹50 lakhs, silver medalists ₹25 lakhs, and bronze medalists ₹10 lakhs.
LPU has a significant presence at the Paris Olympics, with 24 students representing India in various sports disciplines, including javelin, wrestling, hockey, athletics, weightlifting, shooting, and boxing. This contingent accounts for 21% of the overall Indian team, making LPU the second-largest contingent globally, following Stanford University (USA).
LPU’s dedication to supporting its student-athletes is evident in its substantial investments in world-class sports infrastructure, including an Olympic-size all-weather indoor swimming pool, diving pool, warming pool, 16 badminton courts, multiple squash courts, basketball courts, a shooting range, and more. The university also provides 100% scholarships to promising athletes, ensuring their holistic development.
LPU’s student-athletes have consistently excelled in previous Asian Games, with Kho-Kho team captain Nasreen Sheikh being honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award. The university also achieved the first runner-up position for the Maka Trophy, becoming the first private university to reach this milestone.