Tamil Nadu CM Announces ₹30 Lakh Reward For Weightlifter Raja Muthupandi

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C Joseph Vijay has announced a cash incentive of ₹30 lakh for weightlifter Raja Muthupandi, who secured a silver medal in the men’s 65kg category at the Commonwealth Games 2026 in Glasgow, Scotland.

The Chief Minister congratulated the athlete on his achievement, saying the reward was in recognition of his outstanding performance. Vijay expressed confidence that the medal-winning feat would inspire young sportspersons across the State.

Raja Muthupandi, from Tuticorin district in Tamil Nadu, finished with a total of 286kg (126kg+160kg) in the men’s 65kg weightlifting category. He opened with a successful 125kg snatch before improving to 126kg on his second attempt. In the clean and jerk, he successfully lifted 158kg and 160kg before failing at 170kg in his final attempt.

The Chief Minister praised Muthupandi’s performance as a record-setting accomplishment and praised his perseverance on the international stage. Vijay announced the ₹30 lakh cash award, saying the Tamil Nadu government would honour the athlete’s success with one of the State’s highest sports incentives.

Muthupandi’s achievement is a proud moment for Tamil Nadu and India. The young weightlifter has been making waves in the sports world, having won silver at the Commonwealth Championships in 2025 and setting a new personal best of 299 kg at the World Championships in Førde, Norway.

The Chief Minister expressed hope that Muthupandi’s achievement would motivate aspiring athletes to pursue excellence in sports and bring greater recognition to Tamil Nadu. Vijay said, 'I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Raja Muthupandi for winning the silver medal in the men’s 65kg weightlifting event at the Commonwealth Championships in Glasgow. His success is a matter of immense pride for Tamil Nadu.'

The reward announced by the Chief Minister is a testament to the State’s commitment to supporting and encouraging its athletes. Muthupandi’s achievement is a significant milestone for Indian weightlifting, and his success is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes.

In the context of Indian sports, Muthupandi’s achievement is a notable one. India has been producing talented weightlifters in recent years, and Muthupandi’s success is a testament to the country’s growing prowess in the sport.

The significance of Muthupandi’s achievement extends beyond the sports world. His success is a source of pride for the nation, and his achievement is expected to inspire young Indians to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence.

In conclusion, Raja Muthupandi’s silver medal win at the Commonwealth Games 2026 is a significant achievement that has brought pride and recognition to Tamil Nadu and India. The ₹30 lakh reward announced by the Chief Minister is a well-deserved recognition of his outstanding performance, and his success is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes in the country.