Medallists from the upcoming Olympics in Rio de Janeiro will be considered for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, the highest sporting honour in India, and the Arjuna Awards this year, the Ministry of Sports announced on Tuesday. The decision was made so athletes do not have to wait an entire year for recognition, despite putting in medal-winning performances at the Olympics, NDTV reported.

Past performers will also be considered for the awards. Athletes who have not won an Arjuna Award yet but played "stellar roles" in helping their teams win medals in the Rio Olympics 2016 will also be considered for Arjuna Awards, the ministry added.