On January 17, 2025, a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi, celebrated the stellar achievements of India’s finest athletes at the prestigious National Sports Awards. The ceremony, presided over by President Droupadi Murmu, recognized the outstanding performances of Indian sports champions, including the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award and the Arjuna Awards. The event not only honored athletes but also acknowledged the contribution of their coaches, mentors, and institutions that played a pivotal role in their success.
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awards: India’s Highest Sporting Honor
The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting accolade, was conferred upon four remarkable athletes whose achievements have set benchmarks in their respective sports:
- Manu Bhaker (Shooting): A double Olympic medallist, awarded for her exceptional shooting career and international accomplishments.
- D. Gukesh (Chess): The youngest World Chess Champion, who made history by becoming the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to claim this title.
- Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey): Captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, instrumental in leading the team to Olympic bronze medals in Tokyo and Paris.
- Praveen Kumar (Para-Athletics): A Paralympic gold-winning high jumper, celebrated for his extraordinary achievements in para-athletics.
Para-Athletes Shine: India’s Triumph at the Paris Paralympics
The 2025 National Sports Awards paid special tribute to India’s para-athletes, particularly following the country’s stellar performance at the Paris Paralympics 2024, where India clinched 29 medals, including 7 gold, 9 silver, and 13 bronze. The success of para-athletes was highlighted by the recognition of 17 para-athletes in the awards ceremony.
- Rakesh Kumar (Para-Athletics): Awarded for his high jump performance, which set new records in the para-sports category.
- Nitesh Kumar (Para-Badminton): Recognized for his exceptional badminton skills.
- Monika Agarwal (Para-Shooting): Honored for her achievements in shooting, which brought pride to India on the global stage.
The recognition of these athletes underlined India’s commitment to promoting para-sports and empowering athletes with disabilities to excel at the highest level.
Arjuna Awards: Honoring Sporting Excellence
This year, 32 athletes were awarded the Arjuna Award, with a significant representation of 17 para-athletes reflecting India’s growth and success in para-sports. Some notable recipients include:
- Jyothi Yarraji (Athletics): Recognized for her outstanding achievements in hurdles.
- Annu Rani (Athletics): Awarded for her excellence in javelin throw.
- Nitu (Boxing): Honored for her success in the women’s flyweight category.
Lifetime Arjuna Award: Murlikant Petkar
Murlikant Rajaram Petkar, India’s first Paralympic gold medallist in swimming, received the Lifetime Arjuna Award. At the age of 80, Petkar’s extraordinary journey from being a war hero to a Paralympic champion has left an indelible mark on India’s sports history. His life story continues to inspire millions.
Dronacharya Award: Celebrating Coaches
The Dronacharya Award was presented to coaches who have made exceptional contributions in shaping the careers of athletes. Deepali Deshpande (Shooting) and Armando Agnelo Colaco (Football) were among the prominent coaches who were recognized for their tireless efforts in mentoring athletes who have brought global recognition to India.
Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar: Promoting Sports in India
The Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar was awarded to the Physical Education Foundation of India for its ongoing initiatives to promote sports at the grassroots level. This award recognized their efforts in making sports more accessible and inclusive for all.
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy: Recognizing Top-Performing Universities
The Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy was awarded to the top-performing universities in the Khelo India University Games, with Chandigarh University, Lovely Professional University, and Guru Nanak Dev University emerging as the leaders.
Special Moments:
The ceremony also witnessed emotionally charged moments, including the heartfelt recognition of Pranav Soorma, a wheelchair-bound athlete, who was personally received by President Murmu. His courage and perseverance are a testament to the spirit of Indian athletes. Additionally, the moment when Murlikant Petkar, at the age of 80, received the Lifetime Arjuna Award was particularly moving, as it symbolized the resilience and determination of Indian sports.
The National Sports Awards 2025 was a celebration of India’s sports achievements, and it has set the stage for the next generation of athletes. The event not only honored individuals who have made significant contributions but also highlighted the country’s growing prominence on the world sports map, motivating youth to dream big and push boundaries in the pursuit of sporting excellence.