Appreciating the landmark achievement of Kishore, the Chief Minister said he was a source of pride for entire state . particularly sportspersons. He expressed confidence that the champion javelin thrower would bring more laurels to the state and wished him luck for Paris Olympics.

Secretary (5T) VK Pandian was also present during the felicitation and congratulated Kishore for his exemplary journey.

Kishore thanked the Chief Minister for recognising his effort and achievement and expressed his gratitude to Odisha Government for supporting sportspersons that helps them stay focused on their game.

He bagged the silver medal in the Asian Games with his personal best throw of 87.54 metre and sealed his berth in the upcoming Paris Olympics 2024. India’s javelin champion Neeraj Chopra bagged gold medal in the Games.

Kishore, who hails from Puri, had an immensely successful year. Before the Asian Games, he finished 5th at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest for which he was recognised with a cash award of Rs 50 lakh by the chief minister.

In a historic first for the World Athletics Championships, three Indian athletes secured their positions in the men’s Javelin final that included Kishore from Odisha.

He further strengthened his position in the javelin world when he finished 5th with a personal best of 84.77 m and made his state very proud while also making an impression on the Athletics fraternity of the world.

The Chief Minister praised Kishore Jena’s incredible achievement and congratulated him on his remarkable accomplishment and presented him with Rs 50 lakh.

“Kishore Jena’s success is not just his own; it is a source of pride for all of us in Odisha. His remarkable journey to the finals of the World Athletics Championship serves as an inspiration to our youth and a testament to the talent that our state possesses. We are committed to supporting and nurturing such talent in the field of sports,” the Chief Minister said.

The CM said that Kishore’s participation is a remarkable feat for the athlete and a historic achievement in the sports history of Odisha. “His remarkable journey and exceptional performance at the World Athletics Championship in Budapest have not only brought glory to our state and nation but will also continue to inspire many athletes for years to come,” Naveen said commending his indomitable spirit.

Kishore, who had to overcome visa problems to reach Budapest, finished fifth in the championship with a throw of 84.77 metres, also his personal best. This native of Puri district caught everyone’s attention with a remarkable improvement in his performance in the last six months. His last best was at Sri Lankan Championships when he threw 84.38m late last month to win the event and qualify for the Worlds.

The World Athletics Championship is a prestigious global event that brings together the finest athletes from around the world, competing in various track and field disciplines. Kishore’s participation in this championship not only represents a personal achievement but also showcases the sportsmanship and talent that Odisha has to offer to the world, a CMO release added.