Bhubaneswar: The state government has made some changes in awarding ‘Manoj Das International Literary Award’, instituted in memory of eminent litterateur from Odisha Manoj Das.
The Manoj Das International Literary Award that was announced to be presented to litterateurs from Odisha for their creative contribution to English literature every year. As per revised norms, the award will be given to Indian litterateurs, official sources said.
Earlier, the government had announced that high school students will be presented ‘Manoj-Kishore Literary Talent Award’ for their creative works in both Odia and English literature. The award in each category would carry cash award of Rs 1 lakh.
According to new norms, the award will be given to the high school students who would secure first, second and third positions in story writing category.
One student will be awarded for first rank, two for second rank and three for third position. While first prize will carry cash reward of Rs 30,000, second rank holder will be given Rs 20,000 and third rank Rs 10,000.
The government had also announced that it would take over the paternal house of the litterateur at his birthplace Sankhari village in Balasore district and set up a memorial ‘Manmath-Manoj Memorial’ in the name of Manoj Das and his historian brother Manmath Nath Das.
The procurement process of the property is in progress and would be handed over to the government soon.
It may be noted that Chief Minister had last year announced the ‘Manoj Das International Literary Award’ after discussion with the family members of Manoj Das.
Manoj Das, an eminent Indian author who wrote both in Odia and English language, passed away at the age of 87 on April 27, 2021.
