In a country which is dominated by just one sport which is played for more than half of the year, other sports have taken a backseat, be it the national sport Hockey.

The hockey World Cup is just round the corner and there is hardly any one talking about it except the Hero Honda campaign.

But, in a country where cricketers get all the awards, the money and the brand endorsements, a rare gesture by the steel giant SAIL (Steel Authority of India) has announced rewards for the hockey-team.

The rewards will be based on the performance of the hockey tem in the FIH world hockey cup at the Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi starting this Sunday. The rewards will include Rs. 1crore, Rs. 50 lakh and Rs. 25 lakh for winning, Gold, Silver and Bronze respectively.

Also worth noticing is the man of steel award for the best defender in all matches of the tournament. A cash reward and a trophy will be presented to the winner.

Among other steps SAIL has also promoted football, athletics and archery in major parts of the country by setting up sports academies.