Tejaswin Shankar Criticizes National Sports Award Delay as Disrespectful
Synopsis
Tejaswin Shankar, an Asian Games silver medallist, criticizes the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports for delaying the National Sports Awards announcement, calling it demotivating and disrespectful to athletes and coaches. The ongoing re-evaluation process has sparked significant backlash.
Key Takeaways
Tejaswin Shankar has expressed concerns over the delay in announcing the National Sports Awards .
The delay has been described as demotivating and disrespectful to athletes.
The awards ceremony is generally held on August 29 , but may be rescheduled due to major sporting events.
The ministry is currently re-evaluating the list of nominees, causing further delays.
Timely recognition of athletes' achievements is crucial for their motivation and morale.
New Delhi, April 14 (NationPress) Tejaswin Shankar, the Asian Games silver medallist in decathlon, has voiced his concerns regarding the delay in the announcement of the National Sports Awards by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. He labeled the postponement as a “sign of disrespect” and expressed that it is “demotivating to athletes and coaches.”
On September 29 of last year, the ministry had called for applications for the National Sports Awards, including the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Arjuna Award (Lifetime), Dronacharya Award, and Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar (RKPP) for 2025, with the deadline extended to November 4.
Following a selection committee meeting on December 24, 24 proposed names were forwarded to the sports ministry, including Tejaswin's nomination for the Arjuna Award. However, the approval process has since stalled.
According to sources within the ministry, “Preparations for the National Sports Awards ceremony are ongoing. The athlete list is currently undergoing re-evaluation, leading to some delays. The awards ceremony will be held as soon as feasible.”
Despite this, the delay has been met with significant backlash from athletes, who argue that this “re-evaluation” is placing undue pressure on those who have already qualified.
Tejaswin emphasized, “This should have been anticipated ‘before’ the unofficial recommended names were revealed in December, not four months ‘after.’ This delay is not only demotivating but also shows a lack of respect.”
The latest guidelines (dated 14.10.2024) state that the awards will typically be presented by the President of India on August 29, in honor of the birth anniversary of the late Major Dhyan Chand.
However, during years when major events such as the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, or Asian Games take place, the date for the awards ceremony will be adjusted based on the conclusion of these competitions and in coordination with the Presidential Secretariat.
Point of View
It appears that the delay in the National Sports Awards announcement has sparked frustration among athletes, particularly Tejaswin Shankar. His remarks reflect a broader sentiment in the sports community about the importance of timely recognition of athletic achievements. The ministry's response indicates an intent to ensure thoroughness, but the timing raises questions about respect and motivation for athletes.
NationPress
5 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the National Sports Awards?
The National Sports Awards are prestigious awards conferred by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports in India to recognize outstanding achievements in sports, including categories like the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna and Arjuna Award.
Who is Tejaswin Shankar?
Tejaswin Shankar is an accomplished decathlon athlete from India, known for winning a silver medal at the Asian Games.
Why did Tejaswin criticize the delay?
Tejaswin criticized the delay in the National Sports Awards announcement as it demotivates athletes and is seen as a sign of disrespect towards their hard work and achievements.
When will the National Sports Awards ceremony take place?
The National Sports Awards ceremony is generally held on August 29, but the date may change based on major sporting events like the Olympics or Commonwealth Games.
What awards are included in the National Sports Awards?
The National Sports Awards include several categories such as the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Dronacharya Award, and Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar.
