Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Sports and Youth Affairs Department hosted a grand felicitation ceremony to honor the state’s sporting heroes, Animesh Kujur, Lalu Prasad Bhoi, and DM Jayaram, who were integral members of the men’s 4×100 relay team that secured a bronze medal at the World University Games-2025 in Germany.
The event saw the presence of prominent dignitaries, including Sports Minister Shri Suryabanshi Suraj, who extended his heartfelt congratulations to the athletes. “The excellent performance of Odisha sportsmen in the World University Games will undoubtedly encourage future sportsmen,” stated Minister Shri Suraj, emphasizing the state’s commitment to fostering a vibrant sports culture.
Secretary Sports and Youth Affairs Sachin Ramchandra Jadhav graced the occasion. Shri Jadhav lauded efforts of the Sporting Heros.
The bronze medal was a significant achievement for India at the World University Games 2025, where the nation finished with a total of 12 medals (two gold, five silver, and five bronze), securing 20th place in the overall medal standings. The men’s 4x100m relay team, comprising Lalu Prasad Bhoi, Animesh Kujur, Manikanta Hoblidhar, and Dondapati Mrutyum Jayaram, clocked a remarkable 38.89 seconds to clinch the bronze.
Also present at the felicitation program were Dr. Yedula Vijay, Director of Sports; Shri Deepankar Mohapatra, CEO of the Hockey Promotion Council, Odisha; and Shri Vijay Kumar Swain, Additional Secretary. Their presence underscored the collective pride and support for the athletes’ remarkable achievement.
The felicitation not only recognized the hard work and dedication of these talented sportsmen but also highlighted Odisha’s growing prominence in the national and international sporting arena. The state continues to invest in sports infrastructure and nurturing young talent, aiming for greater laurels in the future.