Some of India's leading archers, including junior World champion Deepika Kumari, were given cash awards by Sahara India for their outstanding performances last year.
Deepika, who had a wonderful year in 2011, won the maximum of Rs. 4.1 lakh followed by Laishram Bombayla Devi (Rs. 2.2 lakh) and Chekrovolu Swuro (Rs. 2 lakh). All three earned India three Olympic quota places for the London Games.
Jayanta Talukdar, who too earned the lone Olympic berth, and Tarundeep Rai were given Rs. 1.4 lakh.
As many as 37 archers got cash incentives and an amount of Rs. 29.4 lakh was distributed.
India will make an attempt to secure three Olympic quota places in the men's section at the Ogden (U.S.) World Cup in June.
Talukdar has already been retained to play there. A trial will be held here from March 16 to 19 to identify the other two members to accompany him.
