PNN
Bhubaneswar, August 30: In a bid to promote sporting talents of Orissa, EMIL felicitated Tuesday six sports persons (two sprinters and four hockey players) of the state who represented India at the Rio Olympics.
As a token of appreciation, EMIL presented cash prizes along with memento and other goodies to the participants, a company release said.
While sprinters Dutee Chand and Srabani Nanda were presented Rs 15 lakh each, Rs 10,000,00 each was given to hockey players Deep Grace Ekka, Sunita Lakra, Namita Toppo and Lilima Minz.
Orissa tourism and culture minister Ashok Chandra Panda graced the occasion as chief guest and MP Dillip Tirki was the guest of honour at the function.
Words of encouragement and promise to help in other future endevours were also given on behalf of the organisers. Dutee and Srabani stated that more than the monetary gains, the gesture to honour them will act as a huge inspiration. Dutee also stated that such acts will also encourage kids to think of pursuing sports as a career.