Union Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan releases the souvenir of SJFJ National Convention in the presence of OSJA office-bearers in Bhubaneswar on Oct 11, 2016.

Union Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan yesterday formally released the souvenir `Pride of Odisha’, which was brought out on the occasion of 39th National Convention of Sports Journalists’ Federation of India (SJFI), hosted by Odisha Sports Journalists’ Association (OSJA) here recently.

The Union Minister lauded the efforts of OSJA for successfully staging the National Convention for the first time in Odisha.  “Sports journalists have made yeomen contributions for the promotion of sports in the country. I expect them to keep their good work going,’’ said Pradhan while unveiling the souvenir here.

OSJA members greeted the Union Minister with bouquet and thanked him for providing help and support for the success of the National Convention. OSJA working president Sanatan Pani, secretary Suresh Swain, executive committee member Debasis Sundray and State JBP spokesperson Samir Mohanty were present on the occasion.

The 88-page colourful souvenir features articles on sporting facilities and achievements of Odisha as well as the history and cultural heritage of the state.