New Delhi, Nov 6 (IANS): The Sports Ministry on Friday sanctioned Rs 5 lakh for the family of deceased Manipuri footballer Manitombi Singh "to ease the financial crisis of the family", the ministry said in a statement.

"The grant of Rs 5 lakh was sanctioned under the Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for sportspersons," said the ministry. Manitombi died in August this year aged 39. He was the only earning member of his family and is survived by his wife and a son.

"Manitombi has contributed significantly to Indian football. He also contributed as a coach in Manipur. His demise is indeed a loss for the sporting community," said Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju.

"When we learnt about the financial crisis that the family is facing after his death, extending support to them was a duty upon us. It is of prime importance for the Government to support all our athletes, past and present, as well as those who have dedicated their life to sport as coaches, sports administrators, support staff and in similar roles."