The award for lifetime achievement in the promotion of sports and games is part of the Biju Patnaik Sports Award Scheme instituted by the Government of Odisha. This award is given in remembrance of major contributions made towards the development of sports and games in the state by late Biju Patnaik, a former Chief Minister of Odisha. It recognizes athletes who achieved National and International prominence and worked actively in sport administration after retirement.
Objectives
- To foster the development of sports and games in Odisha.
- To honor outstanding sportspersons who have brought pride to the state.
- To inspire the younger generation to emulate senior achievers in sports.
Eligible Sports Disciplines
The award is open to disciplines recognized by:
- International Olympic Committee (IOC).
- Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
- Government of India (GoI).
- Sports Authority of India (SAI).
- Government of Odisha (GoO).
- Sports events for persons with disabilities.
Benefits
- Cash Award: ₹3,00,000/-.
- Other Recognitions:
- A statue.
- A scroll of honor.
- A blazer with a tie.
- Travel and Accommodation: Awardees are provided T.A. and D.A. equivalent to a Grade ‘A’ Officer.
- Posthumous Awards: If awarded posthumously, the next of kin of the awardee will receive the benefits.
- Shared Awards: If multiple recipients are selected, the cash award will be shared equally.
Eligibility Criteria
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Odisha or have resided in the state for at least seven years.
- Performance:
- Must have achieved excellence at the National or International level.
- Continued contribution to sports promotion post-retirement.
- Minimum Age: 45 years as of 1st January of the award year.
- Criminal Record: Must not have any criminal convictions.
- Anti-Doping Compliance: Must not have tested positive for banned performance-enhancing substances.
- Lifetime Recognition: The award can only be received once in a lifetime.
Annulment and Cancellation
- The award may be canceled if obtained fraudulently.
- The recipient must refund the award amount along with 5% annual interest.
- Misuse may result in recovery measures and legal action.
Application Process
Offline Application Process
- Step 1:
- Advertisement for the award is released by 31st January on the official Department of Sports & Youth Services website.
- Step 2:
- Collect the application form from:
- District Collector’s Office.
- DSOs (District Sports Officers).
- SPs (Superintendents of Police).
- NYKS (Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan).
- Odisha Council of Sports.
- Collect the application form from:
- Step 3:
- Fill out the application form with the necessary details and attach supporting documents.
- Step 4:
- Submit the completed form to the Sports & Youth Services Department via the:
- Collector, SP, DSO, NYKS, or the applicant themselves.
- Submit the completed form to the Sports & Youth Services Department via the:
Selection Process
- Scrutiny:
- Applications are reviewed by a Scrutiny Committee of five members, headed by the Director-cum-Additional Secretary of Sports & Youth Services Department.
- Final Selection:
- An eight-member Selection Committee, chaired by the Secretary, Sports & Youth Services Department, reviews the scrutinized applications and recommends names.
- The final approval is given by the Hon’ble Minister, Sports & Youth Services.
Award Timeline
- Advertisement Release: By 31st January.
- Application Deadline: By 31st March.
- Scrutiny and Selection: By 31st May.
- Award Ceremony: 29th August (celebrated as National Sports Day).
Documents Required
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, etc.
- Three Passport-sized Photographs.
- Proof of Residence: Documents proving permanent residency or seven years of stay in Odisha.
- Proof of Age: Birth Certificate or equivalent.
- Performance Records: Certificates/documents showcasing achievements in sports at the State/National/International levels.
- Disability Certificate (if applicable).
- Supporting Documents: Adequate evidence supporting the claim for the award.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the award’s purpose?
To recognize sportspersons who have achieved excellence and contributed to sports promotion in Odisha. - How much is the cash award?
₹3,00,000/-. - Who is eligible?
Sportspersons with significant achievements and post-retirement contributions to sports. - Is the award presented annually?
Not necessarily; it depends on the availability of suitable candidates. - Can it be awarded posthumously?
Yes, benefits can be given to the next of kin. - How to apply?
Collect and submit the application form to the Sports & Youth Services Department through the designated channels.
Sources and References
- Official Website – Sports & Youth Services Department, Odisha
- Scheme Guidelines
- Application Form