New Delhi/Bhubaneswar: President Droupadi Murmu on Thursday conferred Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar 2024 on Priteesmita Bhoi from Odisha at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, for excellence in the field of sports.
She received a medal, certificate and a citation booklet as part of the recognition.
The 15-year-old weightlifter from Dhenkanal had made history as the first Indian to set a world record in the clean and jerk category. She won the gold medal at the IWF World Youth Weightlifting Championship in 2024, setting a new record with a 76kg lift.
Priteesmita also earned silver medals at the Khelo India Youth games and the IWF National Weightlifting Championship.
A total of 17 children — seven boys and 10 girls— from 14 states and Union territories were conferred with the award as India celebrated Veer Bal Diwas, highlighting the achievements and potential of its youngsters.
The award recognises exceptional achievements in seven categories — art and culture; bravery; innovation; science and technology; social service; sports; and environment.
