NSC Awards return to original name 

In a nod to its storied past, the National Sports Council (NSC) has reinstated its prestigious awards under their original title Jatiyo Krira Parishad Purashkar (National Sports Council Award). 

This return to roots comes after years of rebranding and restructuring, with the government now approving a revised policy to guide the awards' future.

Originally conceived in the 1980s to recognise both emerging and established sporting talent, the NSC Awards had faded into obscurity following the suspension in the 1990s. 

Although the award was reinstated a few years ago as Sheikh Kamal Jatiyo Krira Parishad Awards many in the sporting fraternity still yearned for the original emblem of state recognition.

Now, with a fresh coat of policy paint approved by the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the awards will be conferred once again under the name that once inspired generations. 

The NSC has issued a public call for applications, inviting nominations to be submitted to the Council's Secretary no later than the seventh of July. A circular signed by NSC's Director (Sports), Humayun Kabir, has already reached all federations, sports organisations, and relevant institutions.

Unlike the broader National Sports Award, which lacks fixed categories, the NSC Awards are neatly divided into eight: Lifetime Achievement, Sportsperson, Emerging Athlete, Sports Association / Organisation, Sports Journalist, Sponsor / Patron, and Commentator. 

Historically, the awards were handed out on the fifth of each year. In 2024, although the list had been finalised and a press briefing held on 4 August by the Ministry, the ceremony itself never came to pass. This year, the NSC intends to mark the occasion anew, aligning the event with the memory of the July Revolution and the 5 August day of political reckoning in Bangladesh. Even if not on the day itself, the Council is determined to ensure the honours are conferred within August.

As the adage goes, "Better late than never." With this restoration of a long-standing tradition, Bangladesh's sporting community may once again take pride in a national honour that not only celebrates past glories but also paves the way for future legends.