Chennai: Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin announced on Friday that Jallikattu participants who perform exceptionally well by taming the most bulls will be given priority in government jobs in the Animal Husbandry Department. He made this announcement during the world-famous ‘Alanganallur Jallikattu,’ which is the last and most prestigious Jallikattu competition of the season.
The Chief Minister arrived at the venue to witness the traditional sport and presented awards to the best-performing participants (bull tamers). He also honored the owners of the bulls that skillfully escaped the arena without being caught, presenting them with gold rings.
Speaking on the occasion, Stalin said that witnessing this traditional sport of Tamil Nadu firsthand was a thrilling experience. He also announced two major initiatives to support Jallikattu and those associated with it.
In the first announcement, he stated that a special high-quality veterinary hospital will be established in Alanganallur at a cost of ₹2 crore. This hospital will focus on providing proper medical care and maintenance for Jallikattu bulls.
In the second announcement, the Chief Minister said that participants who consistently perform well in traditional Jallikattu competitions and tame the most bulls will be considered for government jobs in the Animal Husbandry Department on a priority basis.
In the January 17th competition, the best-performing participant will be presented with a Hyundai car by the Chief Minister. The second-place winner will receive a motorcycle, and the third-place winner will receive an electric bike.
Similarly, prizes have also been announced for the bull owners. The owner of the best-performing bull will receive a tractor from Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin. According to the Jallikattu organizing committee, the owners of the second and third-place bulls will receive a motorcycle and an electric bike, respectively.
These announcements were met with enthusiastic applause from the participants and spectators. This is being considered a major step towards giving official recognition and support to the participants of this traditional Tamil Nadu sport. Several ministers and Members of Parliament were present at the event.
