New Delhi | October 22,2025 | SKY LINK TIMES
In a moment of immense national pride, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday conferred the Honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army to India’s javelin star and two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra during a formal pipping ceremony at South Block.
Table of Contents
A Historic Honour for India’s Golden Boy
Neeraj Chopra, who has been serving in the Indian Army’s Rajputana Rifles since August 26, 2016, as a Naib Subedar, received the honorary insignia in recognition of his outstanding sporting achievements and dedicated service to the nation.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during his interaction with Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra and his family, lauded the champion athlete as “an epitome of perseverance, patriotism, and the Indian spirit of striving for excellence.”
The ceremony was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officials from the Indian Army and Territorial Army.
Neeraj Chopra: A True Sporting Legend
The 27-year-old athlete made history by becoming the first Indian to win an Olympic gold medal in track and field at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. He continued his exceptional form with a World Athletics Championships gold in 2023 and a silver medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024.
Chopra has also clinched multiple Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Diamond League titles. His personal best throw of 90.23 metres (2025) remains one of the greatest milestones in Indian sporting history.
Honorary Commission Approved by President Murmu
The honorary commission was granted by President Droupadi Murmu on April 16, 2025, in recognition of Neeraj’s extraordinary achievements and inspirational role in promoting national pride.
In his new honorary role, Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra joins a distinguished list of sportspersons who have been honoured by the Indian Armed Forces for their contribution to India’s global sporting stature.
Also Read:https://skylinktimes.in/pm-modi-unites-navy-nation-with-ins-vikrant-diwali/
Accolades and National Recognition
Over the years, Neeraj Chopra has been bestowed with some of India’s highest civilian and sports honours, including the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal.
Rajnath Singh said, “Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra embodies the highest ideals of discipline, dedication and national pride, serving as an inspiration to generations within the sporting fraternity and the Armed Forces alike.”
An Inspiration Beyond Sports
Neeraj Chopra’s journey—from a small-town athlete to an Olympic hero and now a Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army—is a testament to his grit, determination, and love for the nation. His story continues to motivate millions of Indians to aim higher and serve with pride.
For More Info Stay Tuned: https://skylinktimes.in
