Balasore, June 2: Character is the true yardstick of excellence, and individuals with strong values are the ones who achieve lasting success in life, said Balasore MP and former Union Minister Pratap Chandra Sarangi while addressing the ‘Utkarsha-2026’ awards ceremony organised by ‘Prameya’ and ‘News7’.
Speaking as the chief guest at the event held at Gandhi Smruti Bhavan in Balasore on Sunday evening, Sarangi said excellence should not be limited to physical abilities, mental strength or innate talent. Instead, moral values and character should form the foundation of true excellence.
‘Prameya’ and ‘News7’ Group Editor Gopal Krushna Mohapatra praised Balasore’s rich heritage of art and culture and thanked readers and viewers for their continued support. He said the media group would continue its efforts to identify and promote unsung talents from different walks of life.
Group Director (Sales and Marketing) Himanshu Hota said ‘Prameya’ has emerged as Odisha’s leading and most widely circulated newspaper due to the trust and affection of its readers. He expressed happiness over the opportunity to honour talented individuals from Balasore and Bhadrak districts.
Nilgiri MLA Santosh Khatua and Basta MLA Subasini Jena lauded the initiative, describing ‘Utkarsh’ as a unique platform that distinguishes ‘Prameya’ and ‘News7’ from other media organisations through its focus on recognising outstanding achievers.
On the occasion, 21 individuals from Balasore and Bhadrak districts were honoured with the ‘Utkarsha-2026’ Award for their achievements in various fields. Seven others received the ‘Business Icon Award’, while 28 individuals were felicitated under the sponsorship category.
Among those present were Summa Real Media Private Limited CEO Sunil Das, News 7 Working Editor Debanarayan Sethi, poet Prashanta Dash, Balasore Municipality Chairperson Sabita Sahu and social worker Bikram Panda. Renowned Jatra actor Daitari Panda attended as a special guest and entertained the audience with his performances and dialogues.
District Correspondent Alok Kumar Barik delivered the welcome address, while News7 Bureau Chief Sarbeshwar Nath proposed the vote of thanks. The event also featured a cultural performance by artists of Nrutyayan and witnessed the participation of several dignitaries, officials and members of the ‘Prameya-News7’ family.
