In a moment of immense pride for Odisha and India, 15-year-old weightlifter Priteesmita Bhoi from Dhenkanal was honored with the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 for her outstanding achievements in the field of sports. The award was conferred by Hon’ble President Droupadi Murmu at a grand ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, as part of India’s celebrations of Veer Bal Diwas.
Priteesmita Bhoi has made history as the first Indian to set a world record in the clean and jerk category. She achieved this historic feat at the IWF World Youth Weightlifting Championship 2024, where she clinched the gold medal with an extraordinary lift of 76kg, setting a new world record. Her achievements go beyond the international stage. Priteesmita also won silver medals at the Khelo India Youth Games and the IWF National Weightlifting Championship, solidifying her status as one of India’s most promising young athletes.
As a recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, Priteesmita was awarded a medal, a certificate and a citation booklet. The prestigious award is the highest civilian honor for children in India and recognizes exceptional talent in seven categories: art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports, and environment. This year, 17 children — seven boys and 10 girls — from 14 states and Union territories were conferred with the award. The ceremony celebrated the exceptional achievements and potential of India’s youth, showcasing their contributions to diverse fields.
The awards ceremony coincided with Veer Bal Diwas, a day dedicated to honoring the courage and achievements of India’s younger generation. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent among children, ensuring that their efforts inspire the nation. Priteesmita’s achievements have not only brought glory to her home state of Odisha but have also positioned India as a rising force in the world of youth weightlifting. Her determination, discipline, and hard work serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country.
In a moment of immense pride for Odisha and India, 15-year-old weightlifter Priteesmita Bhoi from Dhenkanal was honored with the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 for her outstanding achievements in the field of sports. The award was conferred by Hon’ble President Droupadi Murmu at a grand ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, as part of India’s celebrations of Veer Bal Diwas.
Priteesmita Bhoi has made history as the first Indian to set a world record in the clean and jerk category. She achieved this historic feat at the IWF World Youth Weightlifting Championship 2024, where she clinched the gold medal with an extraordinary lift of 76kg, setting a new world record. Her achievements go beyond the international stage. Priteesmita also won silver medals at the Khelo India Youth Games and the IWF National Weightlifting Championship, solidifying her status as one of India’s most promising young athletes.
As a recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, Priteesmita was awarded a medal, a certificate and a citation booklet. The prestigious award is the highest civilian honor for children in India and recognizes exceptional talent in seven categories: art and culture, bravery, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports, and environment. This year, 17 children — seven boys and 10 girls — from 14 states and Union territories were conferred with the award. The ceremony celebrated the exceptional achievements and potential of India’s youth, showcasing their contributions to diverse fields.
The awards ceremony coincided with Veer Bal Diwas, a day dedicated to honoring the courage and achievements of India’s younger generation. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and nurturing talent among children, ensuring that their efforts inspire the nation. Priteesmita’s achievements have not only brought glory to her home state of Odisha but have also positioned India as a rising force in the world of youth weightlifting. Her determination, discipline, and hard work serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes across the country.
