Odisha showers cash awards on hockey team for gold medal, Rohidas to get Rs 1.5 crore
Patnaik on Saturday said Odia defender Amit Rohidas will also be given an additional Rs 1.5 crore for his role in country's historic gold win at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou. Congratulating the Indian men's hockey team for winning gold at the Asian Games, Patnaik expressed his heartfelt congratulations to Amit Rohidas, acknowledging his outstanding performance and calling him an «inspiration» for youngsters not only across Odisha but also throughout India.
«Amit Rohidas' remarkable achievements exemplify the spirit of perseverance and excellence.
He has become a symbol of hope and pride for aspiring athletes in our state and beyond. His success story resonates with every individual striving to achieve greatness, and we are immensely proud of his accomplishments,» Patnaik said in a statement.
Describing Amit Rohidas as a «true son of the soil» from the hockey-rich region of Sundergarh in Odisha, Patnaik said he (Rohidas) had proudly earned himself an Olympic Bronze Medal at the Tokyo Olympics 2020.
Amit Rohidas, a product of Odisha's rich sporting culture, honed his exceptional skills at the Panposh Sports Hostel in Rourkela. With an impressive track record of over 150 caps, Rohidas emerged as an integral cog in India's campaign in Hangzhou, serving as the first rusher and displaying remarkable strategic acumen. His pivotal goal in the semi-final against South Korea propelled the Indian team towards the final and the coveted gold medal, a senior sports department official said.
