By A Correspondent
Patna: The Bihar Olympic Association (BOA) organised a grand felicitation ceremony at Hotel Chanakya in Patna, where the state’s finest athletes for the year 2025–26 were honoured for their outstanding performances.During the special event, chief guests presented awards to talented sportspersons who are native to Bihar, have represented the state in domestic competitions, earned selection to the Indian national team, and brought laurels to the country by winning medals at the international level.
Speaking about the initiative, Bihar Olympic Association President Ajay Kumar said the primary aim of the awards is to boost the morale of sporting talent within the state and inspire them to excel at future Olympic and global platforms. He added that when athletes from Bihar don the national jersey and hoist the Tricolour on international stages, it fills the entire state with pride.
Six athletes honoured
Six of Bihar’s top athletes were felicitated on stage with trophies and cash awards by distinguished guests:
1. Trilok Kumar (Athletics)
2. Chandan Kumar Singh (Lawn Bowls)
3. Anshika (Archery)
4. Jalaluddin Ansari (Cycling)
5. Kumar Harshit (Table Tennis)
6. Abhay Kumar Sahni (Taekwondo)
Kumar Harshit (Table Tennis) was named Player of the Year (Men), while Anshika Kumari (Archery) received the Player of the Year (Women) award. Both were presented with cheques of ₹11,000 each.
Gathering of Sporting Fraternity
The dignified ceremony witnessed the presence of secretaries and presidents of various sports associations across Bihar. The gathering of sports administrators also discussed future strategies for the development of sports and athletes in the state. All association officials praised the achievements of the six athletes and commended the Bihar Olympic Association (BOA) for this unique initiative.
Transparent Selection Criteria
Ajay Kumar highlighted that stringent and transparent criteria were followed for selecting awardees. Athletes were required to be residents of Bihar, represent the state at the domestic level, secure selection in the national team, and either participate in or win medals for India at international championships.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Bihar Olympic Association Secretary Pradeep Kumar, who expressed gratitude to all sports officials and participants. Ajay Kumar reaffirmed that the association would continue to honour athletes who deliver commendable performances at the international level in the coming years.
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