Darjeeling: Swapna Barman, the Golden Girl of Jalpaiguri returned home to a hero's welcome nearly after a year on Friday. The newfound talent expressed her gratitude to the Bengal government for the Rs 10 lakh award that was recently handed over by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Barman, the daughter of a van-rickshaw puller, became the first Indian to win an Asian Games gold in the Heptathlon.
"There was a time when I did not have Rs 10 also. I am contended with the Rs 10 lakh award that the Chief Minister has given me," stated Barman.
Thousands had turned up at the Bagdogra Airport to welcome Barman back. A cavalcade comprising bikes escorted her. She was felicitated at two places.
Kamtapuri leader Atul Roy handed over a cheque of Rs 1 lakh to her and Rs 50,000 to her coach Subash Sarkar at a felicitation programme organised by the Kamtapuri Language Academy. "There is immense talent in North Bengal. This region has the capacity to produce international sports personalities. However, serious practice is required," added Barman.