New Delhi: Sports Minister Ajay Maken has sanctioned an ex-gratia assistance of Rs.5 lakh to archer Rani Dutta from the National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons.

The ministry came to know through a news item that Rani, who has represented India in various national and international archery competitions, has been living in indigent condition and was also forced to sell her bow to repair her mud house.

Taking cognizance of her poor financial position, Maken sanctioned the ex-gratia assistance to the archer.

Under the Scheme of National Welfare Fund for Sportspersons, the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports provides lump sum financial assistance to outstanding sportspersons of the past, who are facing financial distress. (IANS)