Swetaparna Panda wins 33rd Ekalabya Puraskar 2025

Bhubaneswar, Oct 11: In a proud moment for Odisha's sporting community, rising badminton star Swetaparna Panda has been selected as the recipient of the 33rd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2025. The decision was taken unanimously by the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee during a meeting held earlier today, which included prominent jury members from various fields.

Swetaparna Panda will receive a cash award of ₹7 lakhs along with a citation at the upcoming Ekalabya Puraskar ceremony, the date for which will be announced soon.

In addition to the main award, weightlifter Pritismita Bhoi and tennis player Aahaan will be felicitated with special citations in recognition of their outstanding performances at both national and international levels. Each citation winner will receive ₹1.5 lakhs and a certificate of recognition.

Instituted in 1993 by IMPaCT (Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust) and managed by IMFA, the country’s leading ferro alloys producer, the Ekalabya Puraskar has grown to become Odisha's most prestigious sports award. It honors young sportspersons from the state who have shown exceptional performance over the previous two years and has served as a significant morale booster and career milestone for many of its past recipients.

Announcing the names, Baijayant Panda, Chairperson of the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee and Trustee of IMPaCT, said, “IMPaCT is committed to recognizing and promoting sporting excellence while also contributing to the broader welfare of society. The Ekalabya Puraskar aims to inspire Odisha’s young athletes to excel at national and international platforms.”

The event was coordinated by Aswini Prasad Mohanty, Convenor of the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee.