Patna: CM Samrat Choudhary on Saturday felicitated para-athletes Soman Rana and Jhandu Kumar for their medal-winning performances at the Commonwealth Games 2026, presenting them cash awards, ceremonial ‘angavastras’ and mementos during a National Sports Day programme in Patna.The event was held at the Sankalp auditorium at Lok Sevak Awas, where Rana was honoured for winning the gold medal in the men’s F57 shot put event. He received a cheque of Rs 30 lakh, an angavastra and a memento. Jhandu Kumar, who won bronze in men’s para powerlifting, was presented a cheque of Rs 15 lakh, an angavastra and a memento.Samrat interacted with both players, heard about their experiences at the Games and conveyed his congratulations and best wishes. He said their performances had brought pride not only to Bihar but also to the country, adding their achievements had strengthened the state’s presence on the national and international sports map.“Honouring you is a matter of pride for all of us,” CM Samrat Choudhary said, while reaffirming the state govt’s commitment to encouraging sportspersons, improving training systems and providing better facilities. He said the success of Bihar’s athletes would inspire young people across the state to pursue sports and win medals for India.Samrat said talented players from Bihar would receive all possible support and respect so they could perform better at national and international competitions.Principal secretary to the CM Deepak Kumar, secretaries to the CM Lokesh Kumar Singh and Sanjay Kumar Singh, sports department secretary Deepak Anand, Bihar State Sports Authority director general Ravindran Shankaran, coach Gautam and other senior officials attended the programme held in the capital.
