Bhubaneswar | October 12, 2025 — Rising badminton player Swetaparna Panda has been selected for the prestigious 33rd Ekalabya Puraskar for the year 2025, recognising her outstanding performances on national and international stages.

The decision was made during a meeting of the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee, which includes eminent personalities from various fields. Panda will receive a cash award of ₹7 lakh along with a trophy at the upcoming award ceremony, the date for which will be announced soon.

Citations for Pritismita Bhoi and Aahaan

In addition to Panda, weightlifter Pritismita Bhoi and tennis player Aahaan will be honoured with citations for their exceptional achievements in recent years. Each citation winner will receive a cash prize of ₹1.5 lakh and a certificate of merit.

About the Ekalabya Puraskar

Instituted in 1993 by IMPaCT (Indian Metals Public Charitable Trust) and managed by IMFA Group, the Ekalabya Puraskar is regarded as Odisha’s most prestigious sports award, often compared to leading national-level recognitions. It honours young sportspersons from the state who have demonstrated consistent excellence over the previous two years.

Chairperson of the Ekalabya Puraskar Committee and IMPaCT trustee Baijayant Panda said the award aims to encourage emerging athletes to pursue excellence at both national and international levels.

“IMPaCT has always worked to recognise and inspire sporting excellence while contributing to the welfare of society,” Panda said. “The Ekalabya Puraskar is our way of motivating young athletes to perform on the global stage.”

Over the years, the award has celebrated some of Odisha’s finest athletes, across sports such as hockey, athletics, weightlifting, and badminton — many of whom have gone on to represent India internationally.

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