The Odisha government has renamed the Biju Patnaik Sports Award to the ‘Odisha Rajya Krida Samman.’ The Sports and Youth Services Department issued an official notification on Saturday.
Honoring Outstanding Achievements
This prestigious award recognizes sportspersons from Odisha who have achieved outstanding performance in recognized sports. It celebrates their contributions to making Odisha and India proud. The award also honors eminent coaches, sports journalists, and sports organizations for their excellence.
Eight Categories of Recognition
The award, established in 2001, is conferred in eight categories annually on National Sports Day, August 29, the birth anniversary of legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand. Although the award’s name has changed, the cash prize amounts remain the same.
Recent Recipients
Last year, cyclist Swasti Singh received the award for her exceptional performance. Hockey coach Peter Tirkey and football coach Rajendra Prasad Singh were honored with the Lifetime Achievement Awards. Coach Pradeep Kumar Sarangi and sports journalist Ajay Kumar Das were also recognized for their contributions to coaching and sports journalism, respectively.
Government Initiatives
The new BJP government in Odisha is renaming some schemes from the previous administration. Despite the changes, the award’s essence and recognition of sporting excellence remain intact.
Award Guidelines
The ‘Odisha Rajya Krida Samman’ will be awarded in the following categories, subject to the availability of suitable candidates:
· Lifetime Achievement for Promotion of Sports and Games: Cash award of Rs. 3,00,000.
· Outstanding Performance in Sports and Games for the Year: Cash award of Rs. 2,00,000.
· Excellence in Coaching: Cash award of Rs. 1,00,000.
· Best Contribution for Promotion of Sports and Games: Cash award of Rs. 1,00,000.
· Excellence in Sports Journalism: Cash award of Rs. 1,00,000.
· Para-Sportsperson of the Year: Cash award of Rs. 1,00,000.
· Upcoming Athlete of the Year (Junior Category): Cash award of Rs. 1,00,000.
· Sports Technical Official(s)/Support Staff of the Year: Cash award of Rs. 1,00,000.
The recipients of the Odisha Rajya Krida Samman will be honored with cash awards and other deliverables as approved by the government. This renaming and continued recognition reflect the state’s commitment to promoting sports and honoring those who contribute to its growth and success.
(With inputs from agencies)
