Odisha’s exceptional para-athlete Payal Nag was officially felicitated today by the Sports and Youth Services Department, receiving a cash award of Rs 10 lakhs in recognition of her stellar performance.
Payal brought laurels to the nation and the state by clinching a prestigious silver medal in the women’s para compound doubles category at the recently concluded 5th Asian Para Games 2026.
A special felicitation ceremony was held at the iconic Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. The award and honours were presented by the Commissioner-cum-Secretary of the Sports and Youth Services Department, Shri Bhupendra Singh Punia, alongside Director Dr Yedula Vijay, who commended the athlete’s dedication, resilience, and extraordinary journey.
Expressing his admiration during the event, Shri Bhupendra Singh Punia stated, “Payal Nag has made Odisha immensely proud by securing a silver medal at the 5th Asian Para Games 2026. Her remarkable achievement serves as a profound source of inspiration for aspiring athletes across the state.” He further reiterated the department’s unwavering commitment to supporting athletes, wishing Payal a bright and successful future ahead as she continues to break barriers in sports.
