Odisha Honours Sporting Icons with Biju Patnaik Krida Puraskar on National Sports Day

Bhubaneswar: On the occasion of National Sports Day, the Odisha Government recognised several sportspersons and individuals associated with sports by presenting them with the prestigious Biju Patnaik Krida Puraskar and Biju Patnaik Sahasikata Puraskar.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi awarded the Biju Patnaik Sahasikata Puraskar to Rudra Prasad Mallick, who received a citation and a cash prize of ₹2 lakhs. Weightlifter Suchismita Bhoi was named Best Upcoming Athlete, also receiving ₹2 lakhs in cash.

Hockey star Lazarus Barla was honoured with a lifetime achievement award for his contributions to sports, accompanied by a trophy and ₹4 lakhs. Javelin thrower Kishore Kumar Jena was recognised as the Outstanding Sportsperson, with a trophy and ₹3 lakhs awarded to him.

Hockey coach Bijaya Kumar Lakra received the Excellence in Coaching award, along with ₹2 lakhs. Cricketer Mohammed Zafar Iqbal was recognised as the Outstanding Differently-Abled Sportsperson and received ₹2 lakhs.

In addition, Sukesh Ranjan Behera was awarded for Excellence in Sports Journalism and Rupaniwta Panda was named Outstanding Technical Officer, with both receiving ₹2 lakhs each.