India's Olympic Shooter Rahi Sarnobat Goes Without Salary for 8 Years: Report

Renowned international shooter Rahi Sarnobat, who hails from Kolhapur and has brought home several medals for India, has been facing a troubling financial situation due to government oversight. Appointed as a Deputy Collector in 2014, Sarnobat reportedly received her salary regularly for the first three years. However, for the past eight years, she has not been paid.

Rahi Sarnobat not paid salary for eight years

According to ABP report, the reason for this non-payment is that Sarnobat did not complete the mandatory three-year training period required for her position.

However, during this entire time, she remained an active member of the Indian national shooting team, representing the country in various international competitions. Her commitment to her sport left her with little time to complete the training required by the government role.

As per the report, the issue has now caught the attention of Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar. After a recent meeting between Pawar and the Sarnobat family, the Deputy CM has promised to look into the matter.

What problems is Rahi Sarnobat facing due to unpaid salary?

Without a regular salary record, Sarnobat has reportedly faced difficulties obtaining loans from banks, adding to the stress on her and her family. Despite repeated appeals made by Sarnobat and her family to the authorities, there was no resolution for years.

Rahi Sarnobat accolades

The shooter was awarded the Arjuna Award in 2018. Rahi Sarnobat also represented India at the 2012 London Olympics. Rahi qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics, but was unable to compete due to an injury. Rahi won her first gold medal at the 2008 Commonwealth Games. She also won two gold medals at the 2010 Commonwealth Games. Rahi Sarnobat, a two-time Olympian, was the first Indian pistol shooter to win a gold medal at the ISSF World Cup and the first Indian female shooter to win a gold medal at the Asian Games.