Guwahati: In a historic move to honour Assam‘s sporting legacy, the Assam Olympic Association (AOA) has unveiled the Bhogeswar Baruah National Sports Award Trophy.
The unveiling ceremony on Thursday was graced by Assam Sports Minister Nandita Gorlosa, star boxer Ankushita Bodo, and AOA General Secretary Lakhya Konwar, among other dignitaries and sports enthusiasts.
The award is named after Arjuna awardee Bhogeswar Baruah, the first Assamese athlete to win a gold medal at the 1966 Asian Games. The award will be presented annually to celebrate sporting excellence and inspire the next generation.
The inaugural awards ceremony will take place on September 3, 2025, in Guwahati, coinciding with the birthday of Bhogeswar Baruah. Many international athletes are expected to attend, with legendary sprinter and Indian athletics icon P.T. Usha among the distinguished guests.
As part of the state’s broader initiative to honour the sporting legend, officials also announced that Sarusajai Stadium will be renamed after Bhogeswar Baruah.
The Bhogeswar Baruah National Sports Award will be presented across six categories, with three marquee honours: Best Sportsperson of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award in Sports and Emerging Sportsperson of the Year.
“This award is a step forward in Assam’s commitment to sports governance and development. By recognising talent and honouring our icons, we are investing in a culture of excellence that will inspire generations to come,” said Sports Minister Nandita Gorlosa.
AOA General Secretary Lakhya Konwar highlighted that the award carries the true spirit of a sporting legend.
“Bhogeswar Baruah’s victory at the 1966 Asian Games continues to be a beacon of hope and inspiration. This award ensures his legacy lives on, while motivating our youth to aim higher in the field of sports. It embeds his values of perseverance and dedication into India’s sporting movement,” he said.
The AOA said the award, which will be presented on Baruah’s birthday, will celebrate outstanding contributions to sport, motivate emerging talents and strengthen Assam’s role in India’s evolving sports ecosystem.
