Bhubaneswar: Odisha’s ace swimmer Pratyasa Ray received 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024 here on Sunday. Pratyasa Ray, a rising star in swimming with an impressive track record, as part of the award, Ray 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 today.
In addition, sprinter Dondapati Mrutyum Jayaram, and badminton player Tanvi Patri were honored with citations for their outstanding performances on both national and international stages. Each of the citation winners received a cash prize of Rs. 1.5 lakhs, up from Rs. 1 lakh, along with citations at the award ceremony.
Ekalabya Puraskar, instituted by IMPaCT, in the year 1993 and managed by IMFA, the leading Ferro Alloys producer in the country, has come a long way to be recognized as the most prestigious sports award of Odisha, drawing parallels with many national awards.
MP Baijayant Panda, Chairperson of Ekalabya Puraskar Committee and Trustee of IMPaCT said, “IMPaCT has been in continuous pursuit to recognize and inspire excellence in sports besides contributing to the general welfare of the society at large. Ekalabya Puraskar is instituted to encourage young sportspersons of the State to perform at the national and international arenas.”
