WB govt should declare prize amounts prior to competitions: Asiad gold medalist Swapna Barman

Swapna had won a gold medal in women's heptathlon event at recently concluded Asian Games 2018.

She made the comment at her felicitation ceremony organised by The Calcutta Sports Journalists’ Club.

Reacting to West Bengal government's 10 lakh prize money, which was considered as pretty low by boxer Vijender Singh, Swapna said she is now satisfied with the money though her initial reaction was different.

She said: "Honestly, when I came first in Asian Games, other athletes were laughing at me. They used to taunt for getting so less money from Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.

"Initially, I used to feel bad but told them (other players) that I am happy with it. Now, I am honestly happy to get the amount considering my background. But it is true that if our state government declares prize amounts prior to the commencement of competitions, players better than me will emerge."

Vijender took to Twitter to request Mamata to increase the prize amount.

The boxer had tweeted, "Dear @MamataOfficial didi plz increase #SwapnaBarman state price money #10lakhvs3crore #HumbleRequest #IndiaatAsiangames2018"

Meanwhile, the All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Wednesday invited Swapna to conduct treatment of her tooth infection and lower back pain.

However, Swapna said she will have to talk to GoSports (GoSports Foundation) which look after all her injuries.

"It is great for us. I will look into it. I will have to talk to Go Sports as they looking into all my injuries."