Bhubaneswar, May 23: Women sprinters from the state, Dutee Chand and Srabani Nanda, are all set to take up roles in state-run public sector units.

Chief minister Naveen Patnaik today gave them appointment letters in New Delhi.

While Dutee will join the Odisha Mining Corporation as assistant manager (Group - B), Nanda will work for the Odisha Hydro Power Corporation as junior manager (Group -B).

The state government has adopted a rule this year for direct recruitment of outstanding sportspersons in executive capacities in various state-government undertakings.

In 2015, the government appointed 32 sportspersons in the state police. However, this is the first time that they are being absorbed in state-run organisations in managerial roles.

Dutee, at present, works with the Indian Railways in Mumbai. "I was earning only Rs 15,000 and there are nine members in my family. It was very difficult to manage. I am happy that I have got a job in my state," said the sprinter.

"I am really proud that I have been offered such a good position. This will help me juggle my career and livelihood properly," said an elated Dutee.

Dutee recently clinched a gold medal in the women's 200 metres at the Taiwan Open Athletics Championships while Srabani won silver. Dutee is, at present, focusing on qualifying for the Rio Olympics 2016.

"I have two more events, one each in Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, next month and I do not want to miss the chance," said the athlete.

Srabani has been working as a junior clerk in the railways since 2012.

"I have seen how sportspersons, whether from hockey, football or even other disciplines, lose focus in their career because of unemployment. If you have a steady job, you feel secure," said the ace athlete.