Congratulating the medalists, Minister Behera said, “It gives me immense delight and pride to felicitate our young winners. Their hard work and dedication is paying off. They have given their best at the National Games and brought glory for the State. I am confident, from here on, each one of them will surge ahead in the field of sports. We will continue to support them in their journey throughout.”
Odisha Women’s Rugby team, which won the Gold medal, was felicitated with Rs 60 lakhs. Similarly, the Kho-Kho Women’s team was awarded Rs 45 lakh total cash prize for winning Silver.
Athlete Dinesh Kumar who represented Services and won 3 gold medals in Cycling awarded Rs 15 Lakhs. His parents received the award on his behalf.
Notably, maximum medals have been won by Kayaking, Canoeing and Rowing athletes.