Odisha Sports Minister Felicitates Four Athletes with Cash Awards
Bhubaneswar: Odisha Sports Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Saturday felicitated four athletes who brought laurels to the state and the nation with their recent international achievements.
The minister presented cash awards in recognition of their dedication and success, underscoring Odisha’s growing prominence in the global sports arena.
Loma Swain, who clinched a bronze medal at the 2025 Tokyo Deaflympics, received Rs 5,00,000. Sarthak Arya was awarded Rs 2,09,000 for his bronze medal at the 3rd Asian Youth Games.
Chess champion Padmini Rout earned Rs 2,00,000 for her bronze medal at the 2025 FIDE World Women’s Team Chess Championship.
Bidushmita Bhoi, who secured a gold medal at the Commonwealth Weightlifting Championship, was felicitated with Rs 1,33,000.
Speaking at the ceremony, Minister Suraj praised the athletes’ perseverance and highlighted their role in putting Odisha on the global sports map.
He reiterated the state’s commitment to building world-class sports infrastructure and transforming Odisha into a premier sports hub.
The event was attended by senior officials, including Shri Sachin Ramachandra Jadhav (IAS), Dr Yedula Vijay (IAS), and Padma Shri Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India.
The felicitation ceremony not only celebrated the athletes’ achievements but also aimed to inspire young aspirants across the state.
