The Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, Dr. M.S.Gill , has sanctioned ex-gratia assistance of 2.50 Lakh rupees to Ms. Saly George ( Joseph), a former volleyball player and Arjuna Awardee, who is living in indigent conditions . According to an official release, Ms. George had played volleyball at national and international level from 1980 to 1986. Taking into consideration her financial position, the Sports Minister has sanction ex-gratia payment to Ms. George.