PNN
Bhubaneswar, Sept 14: In a major boost to state sports, 39th convention of the Sports Journalists’ Federation of India (SJFI), organised by Orissa Sports Journalists’ Association (OSJA) got under way at a hotel here Wednesday. Minister of health and family welfare and I&PR Anatnu Sabyasachi Nayak inaugurated the four-day meet.
Among other dignitaries KIIT founder Achyuta Samanta, SJFI president Subodh Malla Barua, secretary A Vinod, treasurer Prasanth Keni, OSJA president K Ravi and secretary Suresh Swain were present. More than 100 sports journalists from various parts of the country are participating in the event and Bhubaneswar became the 17th city to host the mega event. Daily bulletin ‘Bhubaneswar Rocks’ was unveiled during the occasion.
Speaking on the occasion Nayak said, “The convention will help the sports fraternity in the state to focus more. It will also inspire the young generation to take sports seriously.” He also praised the role of the sports journalists for creating an awareness for sports in the public domain. “The role of sports journalists are going to be more challenging and rewarding in the coming days,” he added.
Samanta welcome all the delegates to Bhubaneswar on behalf of OSJA. “Bhubaneswar is a small and beautiful town. I hope your stay will be comfortable here,” he said. Vinod and Barua thanked and congratulated OSJA for taking the responsibility to host the mega event. K Ravi gave the welcome address.
After the inauguration ceremony international cricketer Debashsi Mohanty inaugurated the quiz competition hosted by Prasanna Karmakar.