Paris Olympics 2024: Odisha CM announces Rs 15 lakh each for Kishore Jena and Amit Rohidas
Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has announced a cash award of ₹15 lakh for the two athletes from the state who will be heading to the 2024 Paris Olympics - Kishore Jena and Amit Rohidas. He declared this to encourage the athletes to come up with marvelous performances and win laurels for the nation.
While Kishore Jena is among the country's premier javelin throwers, Amit Rohidas is a crucial part of Indian hockey. The defender is currently the deputy of the Indian national team.
Hailing from Odisha, Rohidas has been an integral part of the Indian squad that won a third-place finish and, subsequently, a bronze medal at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. The 30-year-old also won gold at the 2022 Asian Games in Hangzhou. Among India's list of best rushers, he has been a defensive gem and an experienced campaigner.
On the other hand, Kishore Jena, partaking in the Paris Diamond League, finished 8th with a best of 78.10 meters on Sunday. Not having been able to cross the 80-meter mark himself, Jena proved his potential at the international games. His personal best of 87.54 meters still speaks for itself. He is the silver medalist in the javelin throw of the 2023 Asian Games.
Odisha CM Mohan Charan Majhi congratulates Kishore Jena and Amit Rohidas
Majhi stated that the Olympics are the greatest competition in sports; hence, the qualification of both athletes into it is of immense significance. He was quoted as saying in a public rally:
"I hope that; the amount will inspire the athletes (Kishore Jena and Amit Rohidas) to deliver outstanding performances and bring glory to the nation."
The CM appreciated both the athletes for making their native places and the State as a whole proud.
Extending his best wishes and congratulations, Majhi reassured the State's support for the duo, Kishore Jena and Amit Rohidas, during their preparation for the Olympic Games in Paris. He said:
"On behalf of the people of Odisha, I extend my best wishes and congratulations to both the young athletes. I have full faith in their invisible willpower, hard work, dedication, and perseverance, which will inspire the budding talents of the State."