GV Raja Award 2018 (Kerala State Sports Awards)

Neena Varakil: Jakarta Asiad Games Silver Medal and GV Raja Award Winner

GV Raja Award is the highest sporting award given to any athlete for his or her contribution in sports by Government of Kerala. The award was instituted by Kerala State Sports Council to honour GV Raja, the prominent sports promoter in Kerala. The award carries a cash prize of Rs. 300000, a plaque, and a citation.

Jinson Johnson and Neena Varakil are selected for this year GV Raja Award. Jinson Johnson has won the Gold and the Silver in 1500 m and 800 m at Jakarta Asiad respectively. On the other hand, Neena Varakil has won the Silver in the women's long jump at the Jakarta Asiad Games.

Also, the veteran Badminton coach, Murlidharan S. will receive the Sureshbabu Lifetime Achievement Award, whereas S Manoj will receive the best coach award. They each received Rs. 200000 and Rs. 100000 as a cash reward, in addition to a plaque and a citation.