Swimmer Pratyasa Ray wins prestigious 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024

Bhubaneswar, Sept 22: In a major achievement for Odisha's sports community, swimmer Pratyasa Ray has been awarded the prestigious 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024. The decision was made unanimously by the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee, comprising eminent jury members from various fields, during a meeting held today.

Pratyasa Ray, a rising talent with an impressive track record in swimming, stood out as this year’s deserving recipient. She will be awarded a cash prize of Rs. 7 lakhs—an increase from the previous Rs. 5 lakhs—along with a citation at the Ekalabya Puraskar award ceremony, to be held at a later date.

Additionally, sprinter Dondapati Mrutyum Jayaram and badminton player Tanvi Patri will be honored with citations for their outstanding performances at both national and international levels. Each citation winner will receive Rs. 1.5 lakhs, up from Rs. 1 lakh, alongside citations at the award ceremony.

The Ekalabya Puraskar, instituted by IMPaCT in 1993 and managed by IMFA, the country’s leading ferro alloys producer, has grown to be Odisha's most prestigious sports award, rivaling several national accolades. Many past recipients have gone on to achieve remarkable success in their respective sports, making this award a significant morale booster for young athletes. It is presented annually to recognize the exceptional performances of Odisha's young sportspersons over the preceding two years.

Announcing the winners, Baijayant Panda, Chairperson of the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee and Trustee of IMPaCT, remarked, "IMPaCT is committed to recognizing and inspiring excellence in sports, as well as contributing to the overall welfare of society. The Ekalabya Puraskar encourages young athletes from the state to excel on national and international stages."

The event was organized by Shashank Pattnaik, Convenor of the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee.