The newly elected BJP government in Odisha has renamed the prestigious Biju Patnaik Sports Award to ‘Odisha Rajya Krida Samman’. The decision reflects a significant change in the state’s approach to honoring its sports achievers.

On Friday, the Odisha Sports and Youth Services Department issued new guidelines for the ‘Rajya Krida Samman’, which will now be awarded annually in eight different categories, subject to the availability of suitable candidates. The monetary rewards associated with the awards remain unchanged.

As per the updated guidelines, the lifetime achievement award for promoting sports will carry a cash prize of Rs 3 lakh. Athletes demonstrating outstanding performance in sports will receive Rs 2 lakh, and coaches exhibiting excellence will be awarded Rs 1 lakh.

The change in nomenclature is seen as an effort by the BJP government to establish a distinct identity for the state’s sports recognition programs. However, the criteria and the spirit of celebrating sports excellence in Odisha continue to be a focal point of the award.

The Odisha Rajya Krida Samman aims to motivate athletes and coaches by acknowledging their contributions and achievements in sports. The new guidelines are expected to ensure a fair and transparent selection process, encouraging more participation and higher standards in sports within the state.

This renaming marks a significant shift in the state’s sports policy and highlights the government’s commitment to promoting and recognizing sports talent in Odisha. The first recipients of the Odisha Rajya Krida Samman under the new name will be eagerly awaited by the sports community.