Bhubaneswar, Nov. 1 -- Hockey player Sunelita Toppo has been selected for the prestigious 34th Ekalabya Puraskar for 2026 in recognition of her sporting achievements. She will receive a cash prize of Rs 7 lakh along with a trophy by Indian Metals & Ferro Alloys, IMFA Group.

Toppo played a significant role in India's women's hockey team's gold medal-winning campaign at the 2026 Asian Games. She also scored a goal for India at the 2026 Women's Hockey World Cup and was part of the Indian team that clinched gold at the 2024 Women's Asian Champions Trophy.

Hockey player Amandeep Lakra and badminton player Tanvi Patri have been named runners-up for the award.

Both will receive Rs 1.5 lakh each along with certificates of merit in recognition ...