The Sports & Youth Services Department of the Government of Odisha introduced the Biju Patnaik Sports Award Scheme, which includes the Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Best Contribution to Promotion of Sports and Games. This award honors the late Biju Patnaik, the former Chief Minister of Odisha, for his significant contribution to the growth of the state’s sports and activities. It is the highest accolade in sports given by the Odisha government to individuals or groups that have excelled in advancing sports via sponsorship, funding, and administrative efforts.
Objective
- Encourage activities and sports in Odisha
- Acknowledge people or groups for their deserving contributions to sports marketing
- Encourage and inspire young talent by recognizing outstanding contributions
Advantages
- Award in Cash: ₹1,00,000
- Additional Acknowledgment:
- A statue
- A scroll of honor
- A tie with a blazer
- Allowances for travel (T.A.) and daily expenses (D.A.):
- Grade ‘A’ Officers personally invite the awardees and issue them with their T.A. and D.A.
Note: The recipient’s next of kin may also receive the prize posthumously. In the event that multiple individuals or organizations are chosen, the award funds are distributed among them. If no qualified applicant is found in a given year, the Department may decide not to give out the prize.
Qualifications
For People
- Residence: The candidate must have lived in the state of Odisha for at least seven years or be a permanent resident.
- Age: As of January 1st of the award year, the candidate must be at least 45 years old.
- Accomplishments: Notable accomplishments in sports administration or as support personnel, excluding coaches.
- Crimes: The applicant must be free of prior criminal convictions.
- Lifetime Award: In this category, the recipient will only receive the award once in their lifetime.
Regarding Organizations
- Contributions:
- Introducing athletes
- Providing financial support for elite coaching and global involvement
- Supporting athletic events on a national and international level
Cancellation and Annulment
- If it is found that the prize was gained fraudulently, it will be revoked. In this case, the recipient must return the award funds; if not, recovery procedures will be initiated following the annual imposition of a 5% simple interest rate.
Application Process
Applications can be submitted online or offline.
Online:
- Visit the official website of the Sports & Youth Services Department of Odisha.
- In the “Sports Services” section, select the Biju Patnaik Sports Award.
- To apply, select the “New Applicant” option.
- Complete the application form, ensuring all necessary supporting documentation is included.
- Submit the form online.
Offline:
- Use the portal to download the program.
- Complete and affix copies of all documents.
- Send hard copies by courier, registered mail, or speed post to:
- The Director of Sports,
Kalinga Stadium Sports Complex,
Sports & Youth Services Department,
Bhubaneswar, 751012.
- The Director of Sports,
Note: Some applicants may submit their documents in physical copy if they are having trouble attaching them online.
Accepted Documents
For General Category
- Three passport-sized photos as proof.
- Evidence of residency.
- Proof of age.
- A copy of the accomplishments and supporting records.
- Enough supporting documentation to back the reward claim.
Regarding Organizations
- Address Proof of the Organization.
- Number of registration.
- An explanation of the organization’s accomplishments along with supporting documentation.
- Supporting documentation to support the reward claim.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the “Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Best Contribution to Promotion of Sports and Games”?
It is the highest prize given by the Odisha government to persons or groups who have made significant contributions to the advancement of sports. - How often is the award given out, and how much money is up for grabs?
Every year, an eligible candidate is chosen for the award, which comes with a ₹1,00,000 cash prize. - Is it possible for the prize to be given posthumously?
Indeed, the prize may be handed to the next of kin and may be bestowed posthumously. - Who is qualified to receive the prize?
Eligible parties include individuals (minimum age of 45) and organizations that significantly impact sports. - For each candidate, what are the residence requirements?
The candidate must have lived in Odisha for at least seven years or be a permanent resident. - How do I submit an award application?
Candidates may apply in person at the Director of Sports, Sports & Youth Services Department, Odisha, or online at the official website.
References and Sources
- Official Website: Odisha Department of Sports and Youth Services
- Scheme Guidelines: Accessible via the official website