PUNE: The State government has bestowed the ‘Shiv Chhatrapati Lifetime Achievement Award’ on veteran wrestling coach Pandharinath Pathare for the year 2018-19. 

This was announced by State Sports Minister Sunil Kedar at a press conference in Mumbai on Tuesday, when he also declared other \ winners. Pathare has been promoting and coaching wrestling, a traditional Indian sport at the ‘Gokul Vastad Talim’ in Pune. Kabaddi player Rishank Devadiga, wrestler Abhijit Katke and Akash Chikte (hockey) are among other winners. Pathare expressed happiness after getting the news, saying ‘his selfless service for the sport of wrestling has finally been recognised.’ 

“It indeed is a moment of honour to receive the coveted Shiv Chhatrapati Lifetime Achievement Award and I’m grateful to all my fellow wrestlers and students who have contributed to this feat. The award has fuelled my desire to work for growth of wrestling across Maharashtra,” Pathare reacted after the awards were announced.

The minister also declared Shiv Chhatrapati Awards in the adventure category and for para-athletes. Prabhat Koli (sea swimming) will receive the award in the adventure category.

Sportsmen from the State, who took part in Khelo India Youth Games in January and won, will also be felicitated, Kedar said. Overall, 48 sportspersons will be conferred the Shiv Chhatrapati Award for 2018-19. The minister declared the names of 23 sportsmen and 25 women athletes who will be presented the award on February 22. The awards will be presented by CM Thackeray and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar at the Gateway of India in South Mumbai.