Bhubaneswar: The State Government on Tuesday Recommend the name Sprinter Dutee Chand for Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award-2021, the highest sports honor in the country, while the name of the Birendra Lakra International Hockey has been proposed for the Arjuna award.
The State Sports and Youth Service Department has sent a letter to the Ministry of Sports and Adolescent Unity in this matter.
Dutee recently broke its own national record in 100 meters by noting at 11:17 seconds at the Indian 4 Grand Prix in Patiala on June 21.
The previous record was 11:22 seconds, which he had recorded in 2019 at The 59th National Open Athletics Championship in Ranchi.
The 25-year-old player, who spent the 100m Olympic qualification time in the final of the national inter-state championship, still hopes Tokyo’s bed is based on his world ranking.
Previously, Dutee had won two silver medals in 100 and 200 meters in Jakarta Asian Games in 2018.
A year later, he had pocketed gold in the world university game in Napoli, Italy.
In addition, he also brought victory for states and countries in several national and international events.
“I express my gratitude to the Head of Minister of Naveen Patnaik to recommend my name for the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award.
I hope a similar encouragement from the state government in the future,” Dutee said.
Lakra is part of the Indian 16 men’s hockey team for the Tokyo Olympics.
Indian Hockey was recently named Lakra as the Deputy captain of the men’s team along with HarmanPreet Singh.
Defender, who is part of the national team at the London 2012 Olympics, has played 197 matches for India.
He is also part of the national side in several international tours.
Among other things, the names of KaluCharan Veteran Hockey coach Chaudhary and former national record holders at 100M Hurdles, Anuradha Bal Bal, respectively have been recommended for the Dhayancharya Dhayancha and Dhayanchand award.