New Delhi . Defense Minister Rajnath Singh conferred the rank of Honorary Lieutenant Colonel to Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra. Defense Minister Rajnath Singh formally presented the honor to Neeraj at a grand ceremony held in South Block, New Delhi.
Speaking on the occasion, the Defense Minister said that Lieutenant Colonel (Honorary) Neeraj Chopra epitomizes the Indian spirit of determination, patriotism and excellence. With his discipline and dedication, he has become a source of inspiration not only in the sports world but also in the entire country. Praising the achievements of Neeraj Chopra, the Defense Minister said that the discipline and loyalty that Neeraj showed in the field is the same spirit that connects him to the ideals of the army. He is a true inspiration for the coming generations. Neeraj Chopra was inducted into the Rajputana Rifles Regiment of the Indian Army in the year 2016. Born on 24 December 1997 in Khandra village of Panipat district of Haryana, Neeraj has made not only India proud but also the Indian Army with his performance.
He created history at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics by winning India’s first Olympic gold medal in track and field. After this, he made the country proud by winning a silver medal in the 2024 Paris Olympics and a gold medal in the 2023 World Athletics Championship. Apart from this, Neeraj has also won many gold medals in Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and Diamond League. He recently set a new milestone in the history of Indian athletics by achieving a personal best throw of 90.23 meters (2025).
In recognition of Neeraj’s outstanding achievements and his contribution towards the service of the nation, President Draupadi Murmu granted him Honorary Commission in the Territorial Army on 16 April 2025. Neeraj has already received many prestigious honors, including Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, Arjun Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi and many senior officers of the Indian Army and Territorial Army were present in the program.