Imphal, April 13: Silver medallist at the recently concluded Melbourne Commonwealth Games Laishram Monika was honoured with a cash award of Rs 75,000 by Army Chief JJ Singh.

In the felicitation ceremony held at the Mantripukhri complex of IG AR (S) today, the monetary award was handed over to the weightlifting silver medallist by IG AR (S) BS Ghotra on behalf of the Army Chief.

Speaking on the occasion, Maj Gen BS Ghotra remarked that security forces undertake counter insurgency operations and engage the militants with due respect fit for a fellow combatant.

Acknowledging the laurels brought by Manipuri players for the country, he assured all possible cooperation from the side of AR and Army towards the valiant sportspersons of the State.

Observing that it is a matter of great pride for a man/woman in uniform to win medals in international sports events, Ghotra noted that although most of the people outside Manipur perceive the State as one always embroiled in one or other issues, security forces posted in Manipur, however, appreciate the rare talents of the State.

While engaged with militants in any battlefield, security personnel forces show due respect and befitting manners for a �fighting force�, he reiterated.

He also lauded the efforts of media in highlighting achievements of sportspersons like Monika while expressing his gratitude to State sport authorities for their invaluable guidance and support to players.

Taking part in the felicitation ceremony, MLA N Biren admitted that monetary assistance of the army would be a big boost to the morale of Manipuri sportspersons.

He also assured aid to players from his MLA fund.

In her speech, Monika expressed her wish to win gold medal in the next edition of 2010 Commonwealth Games in New Delhi.

Speaking to reporters, Laishram Monika of Nachou, Bishnupur district informed that she has been selected for weightlifting fellowship and qualified for 2008 Olympics for which training would start shortly.

She mentioned that one of her younger sister is now competing in the World Junior Fencing meet in Korea.

Monika, who joined the CRPF as a constable in 1995, has been assured promotion to the rank of sub-inspector, she added.

In addition to winning the coveted silver medal in the Melbourne Commonwealth Games, Monika had earlier won many medals in international level weightlifting competitions.