The cabinet has approved amendments to the Bihar Eminent Sportsperson Appointment Rules, 2012, according to which only sportspersons from Bihar would be considered for government jobs.

The permanent residents of Bihar, who would be considered for appointment under the sports quota, would have to represent the state or their university in a national sports competition or win medals. The cabinet gave its nod on Tuesday.

Sportspersons are, however, unhappy with the decision, as many feel players from other states should be encouraged to represent Bihar.

Amikar Dayal, a former Ranji player, said: “If Bihar wants to excel in sports, the government should not impose such restrictions.”

Dayal, who runs a cricket academy at Moinul Haque Stadium, added that if players from other states prefer representing Bihar at national and international tournaments, they should be encouraged and provided jobs and other facilities.

He said promoting sportspersons from other states could help develop a conducive atmosphere for games in Bihar.

Bihar Players’ Association president Mritunjay Tiwari said the government should introduce schemes to draw good players from other states to promote sports in Bihar. He, however, said this should not affect the careers of sportspersons from Bihar.

“Good players who have earned a reputation in national- and international-level games should be encouraged to set up sports academy or join sports associations for promotion of games in Bihar,” he said.