Birsa Munda Archery Academy in Silli, run by Ajsu Party president Sudesh Mahto, has been conferred the National Award for Child Welfare, 2016, which carries a cash prize of Rs 3 lakh and a citation.

The award, given by the Union ministry of women and child development, will be presented by President Pranab Mukherjee at a function on November 14 at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

The archery academy, whose chief patron is former deputy chief minister Mahto and has his wife Neha as president, has received an invitation from the Union ministry to attend the presentation ceremony. Chief trainer Prakash Ram, along with a few others, are expected to go to Delhi to receive the award.

"It is very encouraging for the academy. The award will boost the morale of youths being trained," Mahto said.

The academy has branches at Sonahatu, Jonha, Gumla and Ramgarh where 300 children and youths are trained by experts. Set up in August 2010, the academy has produced talents like Simpi Kumari Mahto, Sushma Kumari and Madhumita Kumari. Others like world No. 9 Deepika Kumari visit the academy.