Neeraj Chopra honored with Lieutenant Colonel rank in territorial army, receives insignia from Rajnath Singh
New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu) : India's star javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra was on Wednesday conferred the rank of Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army of the Indian Army. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally presented the insignia to Neeraj at a grand ceremony held in South Block, New Delhi.
On this occasion, the Defense Minister said that Lieutenant Colonel (Honorary) Neeraj Chopra embodies the Indian spirit of determination, patriotism, and excellence. Through his discipline and dedication, he has become a source of inspiration not only in the sports world but throughout the country. Praising Neeraj Chopra's achievements, the Defense Minister said that the discipline and dedication Neeraj displayed on the field connect him with the ideals of the Army. He is a true inspiration for generations to come.
Neeraj Chopra was commissioned into the Rajputana Rifles Regiment of the Indian Army in 2016. Born on December 24, 1997, in Khandra village, Panipat district, Haryana, Neeraj has made not only India but also the Indian Army proud with his performances. He created history at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, winning India's first Olympic gold medal in track and field. He subsequently brought glory to the nation by winning a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics and a gold medal at the 2023 World Athletics Championships.
In addition, Neeraj has won several gold medals at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Diamond League. He recently set a new milestone in Indian athletics history with a personal best throw of 90.23 meters (2025). In recognition of Neeraj's outstanding achievements and contributions to national service, President Draupadi Murmu conferred an honorary commission on him in the Territorial Army on April 16, 2025. Neeraj has previously received several prestigious honors, including the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal. Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and several senior officers of the Indian Army and Territorial Army were present at the ceremony.