Odisha’s Sports Stars Shine: Minister Felicitates Khelo India Youth Games 2023 Achievers

Bhubaneswar: In a momentous celebration of sporting achievements, the Sports Minister Tusharkanti Behera honored 92 athletes from Odisha at the Kalinga Sports Complex for their stellar performances during the Khelo India Youth Games 2023. The felicitation ceremony, attended by dignitaries including Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, showcased the state’s commitment to nurturing talent and encouraging sporting excellence.

A total cash award of Rs 63,75,000 was disbursed to the athletes in recognition of Odisha’s remarkable medal haul, which comprised six gold medals, seven silver medals, and eight bronze medals. The felicitation event was also graced by Sports Director Siddhartha Das and other officials from the sports department.

Expressing pride in the achievements of the young athletes, Sports Minister Tusharkanti Behera remarked, “The development of youth through sports is very important to us, so it is always a matter of pride for us to see our young athletes win medals for Odisha. Congratulations to all the medalists; Odisha stands behind you as you continue your journey of athletic excellence.”

The Government of Odisha, in line with its steadfast commitment to recognizing and rewarding sporting brilliance, allocated cash prizes of Rs 1,00,000 for gold medals, Rs 75,000 for silver medals, and Rs 50,000 for bronze medals to the deserving athletes.

Among the distinguished awardees were Mohammad Reyan Basha for his gold in the 100 Mtr. Run and silver in the Medley Relay, and Ommkar Prasad Nanda, who clinched two golds in Hammer Throw and Shotput. The Weightlifting contingent shone brightly with gold medalists Jyoshna Sabar and Sadananda Bariha, along with silver and bronze medalists Priteesmita Bhoi, Mina Santa, Hrudananda Das, and Deepak Kumar Pradhan.

Gymnasts Tannu and Alok Kumar, as well as Badminton duo Pragati Parida and Vishaka Toppo, were also among the awardees. The Men’s Hockey Team, securing a gold, and the Women’s Hockey Team, bagging bronze, received collective applause and cash rewards. The Women’s Kho-kho team, winning silver, and the Men’s Football Team, earning bronze, were also recognized for their remarkable contributions.

Odisha, participating in 12 disciplines at the Khelo India Youth Games 2023, demonstrated prowess and secured medals in nearly every discipline except Swimming, Judo, and Mallakhamb. The felicitation ceremony echoed the state’s commitment to fostering a culture of sports and recognizing the efforts of its talented athletes on the national stage.