Bhubaneswar, (Reporterspen), July 20: The BJP-led government in Odisha, under Chief Minister Mohan Majhi, has rebranded the ‘Biju Patnaik Sports Award’ to ‘Odisha Rajya Krida Samman’. A notification regarding this change was issued by the Sports & Youth Services Department on Friday.
This rebranding follows a recent name change of the Location Accessible Multi-Modal Initiative (LAccMI) bus service to Mukhyamantri Bus Seva. The government has also indicated potential renaming of the ‘Mo Bus’ service and Aahaar Centres in the state.
According to the notification, the Odisha Rajya Krida Samman will be awarded to Odisha sportspersons who have achieved outstanding performances in any recognized sport, bringing pride to the state and the nation. The award will also recognize eminent coaches, sports journalists, and sports organizations for their excellence in the field.
The Rajya Krida Samman will be presented in eight categories. The Biju Patnaik Sports Award, established by the BJD government in 2001-02, was created to honor the late Biju Patnaik, former Chief Minister of Odisha, for his significant contributions to the development of sports in the state. It is the highest honor for sportspersons and coaches in Odisha. Additionally, the Biju Patnaik Bravery Award was introduced later, offering a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh.
