In a ceremony reflecting national pride and sporting excellence, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh formally conferred the insignia of Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army upon India’s star javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist, Neeraj Chopra, during a pipping ceremony at South Block, New Delhi, on October 22, 2025.
Recognition of Perseverance and Patriotism
Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra, hailed as an epitome of perseverance, patriotism, and the Indian spirit of striving for excellence, received heartfelt accolades from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. “Chopra embodies the highest ideals of discipline, dedication, and national pride, serving as an inspiration to generations within sports and the Armed Forces alike,” said Shri Rajnath Singh at the event attended by Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officials.
Athletic Journey and Military Association
Neeraj Chopra joined the Indian Army in 2016 as a Naib Subedar with The Rajputana Rifles and has steadily risen through the ranks, being promoted to Subedar Major in 2022. Born on December 24, 1997, in Khandra village, Panipat, Haryana, his athletic achievements include becoming the first Indian to win an Olympic Gold Medal in track and field at Tokyo 2020, winning a Silver Medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024, and securing Gold at the World Athletics Championships in 2023. His personal best javelin throw of 90.23 metres (2025) is a historic milestone for Indian sports.
Honors and Awards
Lt Col (Hony) Chopra’s extraordinary sporting success has been recognized with India’s highest honors, including the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal. The honorary commission in the Territorial Army was granted by President Smt Droupadi Murmu on April 16, 2025, makes him one of the few Indian sports icons, alongside the likes of MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra, to receive this distinction.
Conclusion
By conferring the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel on Neeraj Chopra, the nation not only celebrates a remarkable athlete but also highlights the value of sporting achievements in inspiring patriotism, discipline, and excellence within Indian society and its Armed Forces.
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Source: PIB
