Kalmadi promises cash incentives for star SAG performers

Impressed with Indian athletes overwhelming performance at the 11th South Asian Games Dhaka, IOA president Suresh Kalmadi has promised cash incentives for the star performers of the country.

"We have got about 170-odd medals of which 90 are gold medals. I am very happy with their show. They must be given some monetary boost. I will talk to the Sports Ministry in this regard and ensure that their commanding performance is not ignored," Kalmadi said.

"I am sure this will do great to Indian sport ahead of the Commonwealth Games. All our athletes are undergoing intensive training under good facilities and well-trained coaches. These performance has come as a boost in the run up to CWG," he said.

India dominated the SAG and wrapped up their campaign with 90 gold, 55 silver and 30 bronze medals.

Kalmadi is here to receive the SAG flag as India would host the next edition of the Games in 2012.

"I am also here to receive the flag as we are the hosts in 2012. We will decide on the venue and dates in due course. But India have good infrastructure in place to host the 12th SAG," the Indian Olympic Association chief said.

"We have also discussed the route for baton. It will travel from Bangladesh via Pakistan to India. It will pass through the Wagah border before reaching India," he added.