New Delhi, March 19 (IANS) The cabinet Friday cleared an additional Rs.6.87 billion for the Commonwealth Games, taking the total budget for the Oct 3-14 event to Rs.23 billion.

'The (additional) allocation is for temporary fittings and equipments which are required to make the competition, training and non-competition venues operational for the Games,' Information and Broadcasting Minister Ambika Soni told reporters after a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.

'The installation of these high-end items of overlays will set high standards for technological excellence and capacity enhancement not only in the sphere of sports but also for the organisation and management of mega international and national events,' she said.

'Overlays at all venues are an essential element for the successful conduct and delivery of the Games. Timely installation of overlays will ensure the efficient operationalisation of sports and spectator services as well as security, broadcast and other services,' said Soni.