Close on the heels of Deputy Chief Minister Sudhir Mahato’s announcement in Jamshedpur honouring Indian skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni with Jharkhand Ratna, Chief Minister Madhu Koda made a similar declaration on Monday. “Dhoni will be the first recipient of the award, the highest award in the state,” Mahato said.

The award introduced for the first time will be presented to Dhoni on the 7th Foundation Day celebration of the state on November 15 at Ranchi. Hailing the performance of the team under Dhoni’s captaincy, Mahato said he had made the country proud. “Dhoni has proved his mettle, particularly after defeating three-time World Cup winners Australia in the semi-final,” he said.

‘As a captain, his role was appreciated by many commentators. I am very proud of him,” said Koda, adding that on his arrival from South Africa, the state Government would honour him as ‘Jharkhand Ratna’.

Though Mahato did not give the details about what the Jharkhand Ratna would consist of, he hinted that it could be a trophy accompanied by cash. “In matters related with the trophy and cash, we will decide latter,” he said.