Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik on Monday announced a cash reward of Rs 25 lakh for javelin thrower Kishore Jena who is the first athlete from Odisha to represent India at the finals of the World Athletics Championship.
On Sunday, he finished a creditable fifth in the javelin throw final at the World Championships in Budapest. He achieved a personal best with a throw covering a distance of 84.77 metres.
"Kishore Jena's remarkable journey and exceptional performance at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest have not only brought glory to our state and nation but would also inspire many athletes for years to come," Patnaik said.
His participation in this championship not only represents a personal achievement but also showcases the sportsmanship and talent that Odisha has to offer to the world, the chief minister said.