Has Neeraj Chopra Been Honored with the Rank of Lt. Colonel?
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Synopsis
Neeraj Chopra, India's Olympic hero, has been honored with the honorary rank of Lt. Colonel in the Territorial Army. This recognition highlights his incredible journey as an athlete and his contributions to Indian sports, making his story truly inspiring.
Key Takeaways
- Neeraj Chopra has been honored with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
- This recognition highlights his contributions to Indian sports.
- Chopra is a two-time Olympic medallist.
- He is the first Indian track and field athlete to win an Olympic gold.
- The honor reflects the nation's pride in its athletes.
New Delhi, May 14 (NationPress) Neeraj Chopra, India's celebrated athlete, has received the honorary title of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army. This prestigious announcement was made by the Ministry of Defence in the official Gazette of India, a recognized publication of the Government of India, on Wednesday.
Chopra solidified his status as India's leading individual Olympian by securing a silver medal in the javelin throw at the 2024 Paris Olympics, marking his second Olympic medal following his historic gold at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.
He is celebrated as the first Indian track and field athlete to clinch a gold medal in Tokyo and concluded his 2024 season with a commendable second-place finish in the esteemed Diamond League Final held in Brussels.
The Gazette of India stated, "No 3 (E) dated 9 May 2025, in exercise of the powers conferred by Para 31 of the Territorial Army Regulations, 1948, the president is pleased to confer the Honorary Rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army on Ex-Sub Maj Neeraj Chopra, PVSM, Padma Shri, VSM, Village & Post Office Khandra, Panipat, Haryana, effective from 16 April 2025."
Previously, Neeraj was enlisted as a Junior Commissioned Officer, achieving the rank of Naib Subedar in the Indian Army on August 26, 2016, before being elevated to Subedar in 2021 due to his remarkable achievements in Tokyo.
Chopra joins a distinguished group of Indian athletes in the army ranks. Notably, Abhinav Bindra, who made history at the 2008 Beijing Olympics by winning the first individual gold medal for India, was also honored with the rank of Lt. Colonel. Additionally, shooter Vijay Kumar earned the honorary title of Captain after his silver medal win in 2012.
Another prominent figure to receive this honor is Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who was awarded the title of Lieutenant Colonel in 2011 after leading India to multiple major tournament victories, including the 2007 T20 World Cup and 2011 ODI World Cup.
Point of View
Neeraj Chopra's elevation to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel is a testament to his dedication and achievements in sports. This honor reflects the nation's appreciation for its athletes and reinforces the importance of sports in national pride and unity.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of Neeraj Chopra's honorary rank?
The honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel recognizes Neeraj Chopra's outstanding contributions to Indian athletics and his status as a national icon.
When was Neeraj Chopra conferred the honorary rank?
Neeraj Chopra was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel on 16 April 2025, as per the Gazette of India.
What were Neeraj Chopra's achievements in the Olympics?
Neeraj Chopra won a gold medal in the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and a silver medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics, establishing himself as India's top individual Olympian.
Who else has received honorary ranks in the Indian Army?
Other notable recipients include Abhinav Bindra, who became a Lt. Colonel after his gold in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, and shooter Vijay Kumar, who was honored as an honorary Captain.
How does this honor impact Neeraj Chopra's career?
This honorary rank enhances Neeraj Chopra's profile as a national sports figure and may open doors for further contributions to sports and society.
