Bhubaneswar: In a remarkable achievement for Odisha’s sporting fraternity, emerging swimmer Pratyasa Ray has been named the recipient of the prestigious 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar for 2024. Recognized for her stellar performances in national and international swimming competitions, Pratyasa has made her mark as one of Odisha’s finest young athletes. The award, which is one of the most prestigious sports honors in the state, is instituted by IMPaCT (Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust) and managed by IMFA (Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys Ltd.), a leading producer of Ferro Alloys in India.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
Pratyasa Ray, known for her endurance and skill in the swimming arena, will be awarded a cash prize of Rs. 7 lakh, along with a citation, at the Ekalabya Puraskar award ceremony. This year’s cash prize has seen an increase from the previous Rs. 5 lakh, further highlighting the growing recognition of Odisha’s sporting talent.
Baijayant Panda, Chairperson of the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee and Trustee of IMPaCT, expressed the organization’s commitment to promoting sports and inspiring young athletes. He emphasized that the award has become a significant part of Odisha’s sporting culture, encouraging local talent to reach national and international levels of competition.
In his statement, Panda said, IMPaCT’s continuous pursuit to recognize and inspire excellence in sports has played a crucial role in motivating young sportspersons. The Ekalabya Puraskar has been a stepping stone for many athletes, propelling them toward greater achievements on the global stage.”
Recognizing Sporting Excellence Beyond Swimming
Alongside Pratyasa Ray, the Ekalabya Puraskar will also honor two more outstanding athletes: sprinter Dondapati Mrutyum Jayaram and badminton player Tanvi Patri. Both athletes will receive citations and a cash prize of Rs. 1.5 lakh each, increased from the previous Rs. 1 lakh. Their contributions to sports at both national and international levels have been recognized as crucial in shaping the future of athletics in Odisha.
Dondapati Mrutyum Jayaram, known for his speed and precision on the track, has represented India at various international athletic events. His consistency and dedication to the sport have made him a promising athlete to watch in the coming years.
Tanvi Patri, a rising star in Indian badminton, has made waves with her powerful smashes and strategic gameplay. Competing at various national and international tournaments, Tanvi has brought glory to the state with her remarkable performances.
Ekalabya Puraskar: A Legacy of Sporting Excellence
First instituted in 1993, the Ekalabya Puraskar has evolved into a symbol of sporting excellence in Odisha. Managed by IMFA, it has grown in stature to become a prestigious award, drawing parallels with several national-level sports honors. Over the years, it has played a pivotal role in recognizing and encouraging young athletes from Odisha to strive for excellence.
Many past recipients of the Ekalabya Puraskar have gone on to become notable figures in Indian sports, representing the country in various global events. The award, with its rich legacy, has been a crucial morale booster for emerging talents in sports such as swimming, athletics, and badminton.
Each year, the Ekalabya Puraskar is awarded based on the performances of young sportspersons from Odisha in the two preceding years. This ensures that deserving candidates who have consistently performed at a high level are recognized and given the opportunity to inspire others in the sporting community.
Odisha’s Growing Sporting Legacy
Odisha has become a hub for sporting talent over the years, with numerous athletes from the state making their mark on both national and international stages. The government’s continued focus on sports infrastructure, training programs, and talent scouting has enabled athletes like Pratyasa Ray, Dondapati Mrutyum Jayaram, and Tanvi Patri to rise to prominence.
In addition to the Ekalabya Puraskar, the state has been instrumental in hosting significant sporting events, promoting grassroots-level talent, and providing international-standard facilities for athletes. The recognition of athletes like Pratyasa Ray is a testament to the hard work and dedication that has gone into nurturing sports in Odisha.
A Bright Future Ahead for Pratyasa Ray
For Pratyasa Ray, the Ekalabya Puraskar is a well-earned recognition of her dedication to swimming. As she continues to make strides in the sport, this prestigious award is set to further boost her confidence and motivate her to achieve greater success in her career.
Her journey from a young, aspiring swimmer to becoming one of Odisha’s most recognized athletes is inspiring for the next generation of sports enthusiasts. With the backing of the state’s sporting infrastructure and support systems like IMPaCT and IMFA, athletes like Pratyasa Ray are sure to shine on the global stage in the years to come.
Conclusion
The 32nd Ekalabya Puraskar stands as a beacon of inspiration, not just for the awardees but for all budding athletes in Odisha. The recognition of Pratyasa Ray, Dondapati Mrutyum Jayaram, and Tanvi Patri reflects the commitment of IMPaCT and IMFA towards encouraging excellence in sports. With the continued support of organizations and the government, Odisha’s sporting future looks brighter than ever.
As the state continues to produce talented athletes, the legacy of the Ekalabya Puraskar will remain a key driver in the pursuit of sporting excellence. Pratyasa Ray’s achievement is not only a personal triumph but also a moment of pride for the entire state, as Odisha cements its position on India’s sporting map.