The Sports Ministry today said medal winners from the upcoming Rio Olympic Games will be considered for this year's Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards. In an official statement, the Ministry said the decision has been taken so that athletes do not have to wait for one year after their medal-winning performances at the Olympic Games. The medal winners in individual events who have already not been conferred with Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in the past will be considered for the highest sporting honour. As per the existing provisions of the schemes of Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards, sports achievements of the sportspersons for the last four years preceding the year of award are to be considered.