3 award winners test positive, not to attend virtual ceremony: Sports Authority of India

SAI said that 65 of the 74 awardees will attend the first-ever virtual National Sports Awards from its centres across the country. “There are 74 awards in seven categories. A total of 65 award winners will attend the function from various locations. Nine award winners will not attend due to several reasons like being quarantined, tested positive, ill health or not in the country etc,” SAI said in a statement.

“After having tested positive, three award winners will not attend the function,” it added without giving any names. However, Satwiksairaj confirmed his positive test while talking to PTI. The country will honour an unparalleled five Khel Ratna winners and 27 Arjuna awardees among others.

SAI further said that all health and safety protocols, keeping with the guidelines of the Health Ministry, are being followed at the venues where dignitaries and awardees will be present. President Ram Nath Kovind will present the awards to the winners in virtual mode.

In the virtual format, President Kovind will attend from the President’s house via video conferencing, while the recipients will be present at SAI centres in various locations. Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju and other officials of the ministry as well as the dignitaries will be present in Vigyan Bhawan for the award ceremony.