In-depth Guide: Get complete details on UP’s Former Players Pension Scheme & Mukhyamantri Khel Protsahan Yojana. Latest pension amounts (2024), step-by-step application process, eligibility, documents, and expert tips for a successful claim.

Empowering Legends: A Guide to Financial Assistance for Former Sportspersons in Uttar Pradesh

The glory of representing your state and nation in sports is unparalleled. However, many athletes face financial challenges after their competitive careers end. Recognizing their immense contribution, the Government of Uttar Pradesh has instituted several welfare schemes to provide crucial financial assistance and social security to its former sportspersons.

This comprehensive guide covers all the latest updates, eligibility criteria, and application processes for financial aid available to retired athletes in UP.

Why is Financial Assistance for Former Sportspersons Crucial?

The life of a sportsperson is often short-lived at the elite level. After years of dedication, many retire with injuries, limited career options, and financial instability. Government pensions and assistance schemes serve as a vital safety net, honoring their past achievements and ensuring they can live a life of dignity.

Key Scheme: UP Former Players Pension Scheme (पूर्व खिलाड़ी पेंशन योजना)

The cornerstone of support for retired athletes in Uttar Pradesh is the Former Players Pension Scheme. It provides a monthly pension to those who have brought laurels to the state.

Latest Updates & Revised Pension Amounts (2024)

In a significant move, the Yogi Adityanath government has substantially increased the pension amounts for former sportspersons. The revised rates are as follows:

• National Players (who represented India): ₹20,000 per month (previously ₹12,000)

• International Players (who participated in international competitions): ₹15,000 per month (previously ₹10,000)

• State Players (who represented UP at the national level): ₹12,000 per month (previously ₹7,000)

This hike, often reported in news outlets like Amar Ujala and Hindustan, reflects the government’s commitment to athlete welfare.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the UP Former Players Pension, an applicant must:

1. Be a permanent resident of Uttar Pradesh.

2. Have retired from active professional sports.

3. Have represented Uttar Pradesh in a National Championship/Games OR represented India in an International Championship/Games.

4. The sport must be recognized by the Sports Directorate of Uttar Pradesh or the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

5. There is usually a minimum tenure of service (e.g., 3 years representing the state) required.

Documents Required 

Applicants need to gather the following documents:

• Duly filled application form (available from the District Sports Office or official website).

• Proof of age and residence (Aadhaar Card, Voter ID).

• Passport-sized photographs.

• Certificates and documents proving participation: This is critical. Include certificates from National/International competitions, press clippings, identity cards from events, or affidavits as required.

• Retirement proof or a self-declaration.

• Bank account details.

How to Apply for the Pension Scheme?

The application process can be initiated both online and offline:

Offline Process:

1. Visit your District Sports Officer’s (DSO) office.

2. Collect the prescribed application form for the “Purva Kheladi Pension Yojana.”

3. Fill out the form carefully and attach all required self-attested documents.

4. Submit the complete application to the District Sports Officer.

Online Process:

The UP government is increasingly moving services online. Keep an eye on the official portal of the Uttar Pradesh Sports Directorate (https://upssdi.com/) for any digital application links that may become available.

Other Forms of Financial Assistance

Beyond the monthly pension, the UP government, through its Mukhyamantri Khel Protsahan Yojana, also provides:

• Cash Awards for Medal Winners: One-time cash rewards for winning medals at National and International events.

• Job Reservations: A certain percentage of government jobs (especially in the police and sports departments) are reserved for outstanding sportspersons.

• Medical Aid: Some schemes offer support for sports-related injuries and medical treatments.

Step-by-Step Application Checklist

1. Verify Eligibility: Confirm you meet the representation and residency criteria.

2. Gather Certificates: Locate all your original participation and medal certificates.

3. Collect Documents: Get copies of your Aadhaar, residence proof, and bank details.

4. Obtain Form: Download from the official website or get it from the DSO office.

5. Fill & Submit: Complete the form and submit it with all attachments.

6. Track Application: Keep a copy of your submission and follow up with the DSO office for status updates.

Scheme 1: The Uttar Pradesh Former Players Pension Scheme (पूर्व खिलाड़ी पेंशन योजना)

This is the primary and most significant source of monthly financial support for retired athletes.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria (Who Can Apply?)

The eligibility is precisely defined based on the level of representation:

1. Permanent Residency: The applicant must be a domicile of Uttar Pradesh, providing valid proof like a Domicile Certificate, Voter ID, or Aadhaar Card with a UP address.

2. Retirement Status: The sportsperson should have retired from active, competitive participation in their sport. This is often a self-declared affidavit.

3. Level of Representation (The Core Criterion):

   • International Player: Has represented India in any officially recognized international competition (e.g., Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, World Cups, or any other FIBA/FIFA/ICC/BWF etc., sanctioned event).

   • National Player: Has represented the State of Uttar Pradesh in any National Championship recognized by the Sports Authority of India (SAI) or the respective National Sports Federation (NSF). Examples include the National Games, Senior National Championships, etc.

   • State Player: Has consistently represented Uttar Pradesh at the national level, often with a minimum service period (typically 3 to 5 years of verified participation). This is to filter out one-time participants.

4. Sport Recognition: The sport in which the player participated must be recognized by the Department of Sports, Uttar Pradesh, and/or the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).

Latest Pension Structure & Recent Updates (2024)

In a landmark decision to bolster athlete welfare, the Yogi Adityanath-led government announced a substantial hike in monthly pension amounts. This move was widely covered in media and reflects a renewed focus on sports.

Important Note: The exact categorization (e.g., whether a player qualifies for ₹15,000 or ₹12,000) is determined by the Sports Directorate based on the certificates and proofs submitted.

Scheme 2: Mukhyamantri Khel Protsahan Yojana (Chief Minister’s Sports Promotion Scheme) 

While the pension scheme provides sustained monthly support, the Mukhyamantri Khel Protsahan Yojana focuses on one-time cash rewards and job incentives. This scheme is crucial for athletes transitioning out of active sports.

A. Cash Awards for Medal Winners

This is a significant financial incentive for current and recently retired players who have achieved medal-winning performances.

These amounts are indicative and subject to change as per government notifications.

B. Job Reservations in Government Services

A pivotal part of the Protsahan Yojana is the 3% horizontal reservation in state government services for outstanding sportspersons. This includes coveted positions in the UP Police, Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), and other civil services. Eligibility typically requires a medal at the National level or above.

The Step-by-Step Application Process: A Practical Guide

For the Pension Scheme (Primarily Offline)

1. Step 1: Document Procurement & Verification

   • The most critical step is to gather all your participation certificates. If any are missing, you may need to obtain attested copies from your sports association or through RTI from the event organizers.

   • Pro Tip: Create a portfolio with a chronological list of your achievements.

2. Step 2: Obtain the Application Form

   • Visit the office of your District Sports Officer (DSO). This is the nodal agency for processing applications.

   • Alternatively, check the official website of the Uttar Pradesh Sports Directorate (https://upssdi.com/) for a downloadable form under the “Schemes/Yojana” section.

3. Step 3: Fill the Form & Attach Documents

   • Fill the form meticulously without errors.

   • Attach self-attested copies of all required documents.

4. Step 4: Submission

   • Submit the complete application packet to the District Sports Officer. Always get a stamped acknowledgment receipt.

5. Step 5: Scrutiny & Approval

   • The DSO verifies the documents and forwards the application to the State Sports Directorate in Lucknow.

   • A state-level committee scrutinizes the application and approves the pension.

   • This process can take 3 to 6 months.

Documents Checklist (Consolidated) 

• Application Form (duly filled and signed)

• Proof of Age & Residence (Aadhaar, Voter ID)

• Passport-sized Photographs

• Sports Achievement Certificates: (Most Important)

  • International/National/State Level Participation Certificates.

  • Medal Certificates.

  • Identity Cards from events.

  • Press clippings (attested by a gazetted officer).

• Affidavit declaring retirement from active sports.

• Bank Account Details (Cancelled Cheque or Passbook copy).

• Domicile Certificate.

Addressing Common Challenges & Pro-Tips for Applicants

• Challenge: Lost Certificates. This is the most common hurdle.

  • Solution: File an RTI with the organizing body of the event (e.g., SAI, NSF) to get a certified participation list. You can also submit an affidavit with supporting evidence like photographs with the team.

• Challenge: Delayed Processing.

  • Solution: Maintain a record of your application number and submission date. Politely follow up with the DSO office every month. If there is no progress, you can escalate the matter to the Joint/Deputy Director at the State Sports Directorate.

• Challenge: Categorization Dispute.

  • Solution: Ensure your application clearly highlights your highest level of achievement. If you believe you have been placed in a lower pension category, you can file a review application with additional proofs.

Conclusion: Securing a Dignified Future

The enhanced financial assistance schemes from the Uttar Pradesh government represent a significant commitment to its sporting community. For former players, these schemes are a rightful acknowledgment of their sacrifices and achievements. By understanding the detailed eligibility, preparing a robust application, and persistently following up, every eligible former sportsperson in UP can access this vital support.

Your contribution to Indian sports is timeless. Ensure your future is secure. Take the first step and apply today. 

Useful Links for Financial Assistance to Former Sportspersons in UP

The following table compiles essential online resources to help you navigate the various schemes and application processes effectively.

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FAQs 

Q1: Who is eligible for the UP Former Players Pension Scheme?
You are eligible if you are a permanent resident of Uttar Pradesh, have retired from active sports, and have represented:

• India at an official international competition, OR

• Uttar Pradesh at a recognized National Championship (like National Games or Senior Nationals).
  A minimum tenure of representing the state (often 3 years) may be required for certain categories.

Q2: What is the latest monthly pension amount for former players?
As per the latest government updates, the revised monthly pension amounts are:

• International/Indian Player: ₹20,000 per month

• National Level Player: ₹15,000 per month

• State Level Player: ₹12,000 per month

Q3: I have lost my original participation certificates. Can I still apply?
Yes. While original certificates are preferred, you can submit alternative proofs such as:

• Attested copies obtained from the concerned National Sports Federation (NSF) or Sports Authority of India (SAI) via an RTI application.

• Official team lists or result sheets from the event.

• Affidavits sworn before a magistrate, supported by press clippings or photographs from the event (also attested).

Q4: What is the step-by-step process to apply for the pension?

1. Collect Documents: Gather all participation certificates, ID proofs, and a retirement affidavit.

2. Get the Form: Obtain the application form from your District Sports Officer (DSO) office or the UP Sports Directorate website.

3. Submit: Fill out the form completely and submit it with all self-attested documents to the DSO. Always get a stamped acknowledgment receipt.

4. Tracking: The DSO forwards the application to the State Directorate for verification and approval, which can take 3-6 months.

 

 

 

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