Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Outstanding Performance in Sports and Games for the Year is a state-level honor from the Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha, for sportspersons who bring glory to the state through their performance in recognized games and disciplines. Selected athletes receive a cash prize of ₹2,00,000 along with a statue, a scroll of honour and a blazer with a tie, and the award is presented every year on National Sports Day.
Government of Odisha has released the advertisement, guidelines and application form for the Biju Patnaik Sports Award 2025 cycle, and applications can now be submitted both online and offline. The last date to apply for the current cycle was 10 July 2026, 5:00 PM.
Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Outstanding Performance in Sports and Games for the Year - Introduction
Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Outstanding Performance in Sports and Games for the Year is one of the categories under the broader Biju Patnaik Sports Award scheme. Launched by the Sports and Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha, it honors the legacy of the late Biju Patnaik, the former Chief Minister of Odisha, by celebrating excellence in sports. The scheme rewards talented athletes whose remarkable achievements during the year inspire pride across the nation.
Objectives:
- Encourage the development of sports and games across the state.
- Honour meritorious sportspersons who make the state proud.
- Inspire and motivate young talents to excel in their chosen disciplines by emulating their seniors.
Sports Discipline: The government recognizes sports disciplines approved by the International Olympic Committee (I.O.C.), Indian Olympic Association (I.O.A.), Government of India (G.O.I.), Sports Authority of India (S.A.I.), and Government of Odisha (G.O.O.), including events for persons with disability.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Outstanding Performance in Sports and Games for the Year |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary States | Odisha |
| Category | Sports & Culture |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Sports and Youth Services Department |
| Implementing Agency | Sports & Youth Services Department, Government of Odisha |
| Application Mode | Online and Offline |
| Official Website | sports.odisha.gov.in |
Benefits
When you achieve this honor, you receive comprehensive support to celebrate your hard work. The benefits include:
- A cash award of ₹2,00,000.
- A statue, a scroll of honour, and a blazer with a tie as formal appreciation.
- Coverage of Travel Allowance (T.A.) and Daily Allowance (D.A.) at the rate of a Grade 'A' officer when you attend the distribution ceremony.
Important Reminders:
- You should note that canvassing for the award is strictly prohibited.
- If you are selected, the award may be granted posthumously to your next of kin.
- If multiple people are selected for the same honor, the cash prize amount is shared among the awardees.
- The Department does not guarantee an award every year; it is subject to the availability of suitable candidates.
Eligibility
To be eligible for this award, you should meet the following criteria:
- You must be a permanent resident of Odisha or have stayed in the state for at least 07 years.
- You should have delivered an outstanding performance in a recognized sports discipline during the year.
- You must have a clean record with no criminal convictions.
- This honor is a one-time lifetime award for any specific category.
- You must not have used any banned drugs or performance-enhancing substances.
Note: If it is discovered that the award was obtained through fraudulent means, the government will initiate recovery of the amount with 5% annual interest.
Application Process
You can apply for the Biju Patnaik Sports Award through the online portal or the offline process. Both methods are explained below.
STEP 1 - Open the official sports award portal at portal.sportsodisha.gov.in and log in with your details to start the online application.
STEP 2 - Alternatively, download the offline application form from the official department website and fill in your details clearly, making sure all documents are self-attested.
STEP 3 - You may also collect the application from the offices of the District Collector, DSOs, SPs, or the Odisha Council of Sports.
STEP 4 - Submit your application through the District Official, your Sports Association, or directly to the Sports & Youth Services Department before the last date.
Timeline:
| Event | Deadline |
| Advertisement Release | May 2026 |
| Last date for applications | 10 July 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Scrutiny and Selection | After the last date |
| Award Ceremony | 29th August (National Sports Day) |
Documents
Make sure you have the following documents ready for your application:
- Valid identity proof.
- Three recent passport-size photographs.
- Proof of residence in Odisha.
- Detailed records of your sports achievements, including self-attested certificates for state, national, or international events.
- Disability certificate, if applicable.
- Any other relevant evidence supporting your candidacy.
References
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FAQ's
What is the Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Outstanding Performance in Sports and Games for the Year?
It is a prestigious state-level award launched by the Government of Odisha to honor athletes who have achieved incredible success in recognized sports, following the legacy of the late Biju Patnaik.
What are the primary objectives of this scheme?
The scheme aims to promote sports development in Odisha, honor meritorious athletes, and inspire young, budding talent to pursue sports seriously.
Which sports disciplines are considered for this award?
Disciplines recognized by the International Olympic Committee, Indian Olympic Association, Sports Authority of India, and the Odisha state government are eligible.
How much is the cash prize?
You will receive a cash award of ₹2,00,000 if selected.
Can I apply online for this award?
Yes, applications can be submitted online through the official sports award portal at portal.sportsodisha.gov.in, and the offline form is also available on the department website.
Are my travel expenses covered for the ceremony?
Yes, as an awardee, you are entitled to T.A. and D.A. equivalent to a Grade 'A' government officer.
Can I apply if I am currently under criminal investigation?
No, you must have a clean record and no criminal convictions to be eligible.
What if there are multiple deserving candidates for one award?
In such cases, the prize money is divided equally among the awardees.