AI SummaryOdisha Rajya Krida Samman for Excellence in Sports Journalism is a state-level honor that recognizes journalists for their work in promoting sports and supporting sportspersons in Odisha. This scheme, earlier known as Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism, carries a cash award of ₹1,00,000 for selected media professionals. The Sports & Youth Services Department of the Government of Odisha runs this award and opens fresh applications for every cycle.
The Odisha government renamed the old Biju Patnaik Sports Award as Odisha Rajya Krida Samman in July 2024. The cash prizes stayed the same, only the name and the award categories were updated. Excellence in sports journalism remains one of the eight categories under this renamed scheme, and the award is still presented every year on National Sports Day on 29 August.
Odisha Rajya Krida Samman for Excellence in Sports Journalism - Introduction
Odisha Rajya Krida Samman for Excellence in Sports Journalism is a category under the broader Odisha Rajya Krida Samman scheme. The Sports & Youth Services Department launched this honor to encourage high quality sports reporting and to appreciate the work of media professionals who help popularize games and fight for the cause of sportspersons in the state.
This scheme aims to inspire journalists to excel in sports reportage. If you are a media professional who has worked to promote sports or advocated for the rights of athletes in Odisha, you may be eligible for this honor. The scheme covers different media roles, including those listed below:
- Sports Journalist: Reporters or desk journalists from major newspapers or magazines who regularly cover sports.
- Accredited Journalists: Reporters holding accreditation as per the Odisha Press Accreditation Rules.
- Freelance Reporters: Independent print or electronic media reporters operating within Odisha.
- Photo Journalists and Camera Correspondents: Professionals representing news agencies or television units.
Key Information
| Scheme Name | Odisha Rajya Krida Samman for Excellence in Sports Journalism |
| Earlier Name | Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Odisha |
| Category | Sports & Culture |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| Cash Award | ₹1,00,000 |
| Nodal Department | Sports & Youth Services Department |
| Application Mode | Online and Offline |
| Official Website | sports.odisha.gov.in |
Benefits
This award celebrates the dedication of journalists to sports storytelling. If selected, you receive the following benefits:
- A cash award of ₹1,00,000 given annually, based on the availability of suitable candidates.
- A statue, a scroll of honor, and a blazer with a tie to mark your achievement.
- Travel and daily allowances at the rates applicable to a Grade A officer if you attend the ceremony in person.
Important Reminders:
- Canvassing for this award is strictly prohibited.
- If you are selected, the award may be presented posthumously to your next of kin if required.
- If the selection committee chooses multiple recipients, the prize money is shared equally.
- The department does not guarantee the award every year; it depends on finding deserving candidates.
Eligibility
To be considered for this honor, you should meet the following criteria:
- You must be a permanent resident of Odisha.
- You should have produced significant work in sports journalism that promotes games or addresses the needs of athletes in the state.
- You must have a clean record with no criminal convictions.
- You can only receive this award once in your lifetime.
- The award process also allows posthumous recognition for the family of a deserving recipient.
Cancellation Policy:
If the award is given based on fraudulent information, the government will cancel it. In such cases, you will be required to return the funds, and the officials may recover the amount with 5% simple interest added.
Exclusions
You are not eligible for this award if you have been found using drugs or performance-enhancing substances.
Application Process
The department issues an advertisement for the award cycle through the official website. For the 2025 award cycle, the last date to apply was 10 July 2026, 5:00 PM. A fresh advertisement and new application window are announced for each cycle, so check the official website regularly for the latest notice.
STEP 1 - Visit the official website at sports.odisha.gov.in and open the awards or notification section to see the latest advertisement and guidelines for the current cycle.
STEP 2 - Download the offline application form or use the online application link. The online form is available at the portal.sportsodisha.gov.in sports award login page.
STEP 3 - Fill in all your details carefully and attach the required documents. You should self-attest all documents; you do not need to approach a Gazetted officer for attestation.
STEP 4 - Submit your application online, or through your local Collector, Superintendent of Police, District Sports Officer, NYKS, or the Odisha Council of Sports, or send it directly to the Sports & Youth Services Department.
Selection Procedure: A five-member scrutiny committee first reviews all applications. Afterward, an eight-member selection committee, chaired by the Secretary of the Sports & Youth Services Department, evaluates the nominations and recommends the final winners for approval by the Hon'ble Minister.
Documents
Make sure you have the following documents ready for your application:
- Proof of identity
- Three recent passport-size photographs
- Residence proof
- Attested copy of your accreditation certificate
- Supporting evidence of your coverage of state, national, or international sports championships
- Comprehensive documentary proof verifying your journalism-related achievements
References
Advertisement and Guidelines for Odisha Rajya Krida Samman
FAQ's
What is Odisha Rajya Krida Samman for Excellence in Sports Journalism?
It is a state-level honor under the Odisha Rajya Krida Samman scheme, earlier known as Biju Patnaik Sports Award for Excellence in Sports Journalism, given by the Odisha government to encourage high quality sports reporting.
Why was the award renamed?
The Odisha government renamed the Biju Patnaik Sports Award as Odisha Rajya Krida Samman in July 2024. The cash prizes and the categories stayed the same, only the name changed.
Who qualifies as a sports journalist for this award?
This includes sports reporters, desk journalists from major newspapers or magazines, accredited journalists, freelance media reporters, and photojournalists or cameramen active in Odisha.
Are freelance reporters eligible?
Yes, freelance reporters working in print or electronic media within Odisha can apply if they meet the criteria set by the I & P.R. Department.
What amount is awarded to winners?
The award carries a cash prize of ₹1,00,000 for the recipient.
How do I apply?
Obtain the form from the official website or district offices, complete it with self-attested documents, and submit it online or to the designated Sports & Youth Services Department authorities.
When was the last date for the 2025 award cycle?
The last date to apply for the 2025 award cycle was 10 July 2026, 5:00 PM. A fresh application window is announced for each new cycle.