Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh today formally conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army upon renowned javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra during a pipping ceremony held in South Block, New Delhi.
During the ceremony, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh interacted with Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra and his family members, describing him as an epitome of perseverance, patriotism, and the Indian spirit of striving for excellence. He stated, “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.” The Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, along with other senior officials from the Indian Army and Territorial Army, were also present at the event.
Enrolled in the Indian Army in 2016, Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra has served with The Rajputana Rifles. Born on December 24, 1997, in Khandra village, Panipat district, Haryana, he has brought immense pride to the nation and the Armed Forces through his remarkable achievements in international athletics.
Neeraj made history by becoming the first Indian athlete to win an Olympic Gold Medal in track and field at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020. He continued to excel by winning a Silver Medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024 and a Gold Medal at the World Athletics Championships in 2023. Additionally, he has earned multiple Gold Medals at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Diamond League events. His personal best throw of 90.23 meters, achieved in 2025, stands as a significant milestone in Indian sporting history.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements and exemplary service to the nation, Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra was granted an honorary commission in the Territorial Army by President Smt. Droupadi Murmu on April 16, 2025. He has also been honoured with several prestigious awards, including the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal.
