Bhubaneswar : Odisha’s Pencak Silat players clinched two silver and two bronze medals at the 37th National Games, showcasing their exceptional skills and determination. The state’s athletes, including Plizalin Tarai, Rabindra Batra, Ashutosh Pujari, Ganesh Pujari, A Aswini Rao, and Yeshwant Luhar, impressed with their performances in the various categories of the martial arts competition.
The Government of Odisha recognized the achievements of these talented athletes with a generous cash prize of ₹16 lac, emphasizing the state’s commitment to nurturing sportsmanship. Plizalin Tarai, Rabindra Bhatra, Ashutosh Pujari, and Ganesh Pujari, the silver medalists, were each awarded ₹3 lac, while bronze medalists A Aswini Rao and Yeshwant Luhar received ₹2 lac each.
Odisha’s Sports Minister, Tushar Kanti Behera, and the Secretary and President of the Sports and Youth Department expressed their gratitude to the Odisha government for its unwavering support in promoting sports and recognizing the efforts of the athletes. They acknowledged that the substantial cash prizes not only serve as a reward for their current successes but also encourage them to achieve greater heights in the future.
The Pencak Silat Association Odisha President,  Tapas Kumar Roy Chowdhury, and Secretary Guru Prem Singh Thapa, also expressed their appreciation to the government for its support and recognition. They commended the athletes for their dedication and hard work, which have brought pride to the state.
Odisha’s achievements in Pencak Silat at the National Games mark a significant milestone in the state’s sporting legacy. The accolades and rewards bestowed upon these champions reflect the government’s commitment to fostering a thriving sports culture and providing a platform for athletes to excel at the national level. With continued support and encouragement, Odisha’s sporting heroes are poised to achieve even greater success in the years to come.
