BHUBANESWAR 10-Oct-2014 91
Bouquets and cash award today came across the way of Odisha hockey star Birendra Lakra for helping India win men`s gold medal in the recent Asian Games at Incheon. While Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan felicitated Lakra here at city hotel, while Odisha government announced cash award of Rs 2.5 lakh for the ace defender from Sundargarh district.
Lauding Lakra for his latest achievement, Pradhan announced that Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd will take steps for the all-round development of the player`s village, Lachhada, which comes under Bonai sub-division.
``Road communication, education, health and telecommunication facilities need to be in proper place at Lakra`s village. BPCL authorities will consult Lakra before undertaking development work,`` the minister said.
``Lakra has been a consistent performer for India and has thwarted many forwards from rival teams from scoring goals. He has been like a rock of Gibraltar in the Indian team`s defence,`` added the minister.
Meanwhile, Odisha Sports Minister Sudam Marndi announced cash prize of Rs 2.5 lakh for Lakra, who is employed with BPCL as an Assistant Manager, and Rs 75,000 each for four women hockey players, who helped India win bronze medal in the Incheon Asiad.
The four women hockey players of Odisha include Namita Toppo, Lilima Minj, Deep Grace Ekka and Sunita Lakra. According to the Sports Minister the five players would be felicitated here at a special ceremony on the occasion of Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament in December.
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PHOTO: Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan felicitates hockey star Birendra Lakra in Bhubaneswar on Oct 10, 2014.
