Neeraj Chopra Conferred Honorary Rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Territorial Army by Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh

Raksha Mantri hails Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra as the embodiment of discipline, patriotism, and excellence, inspiring both athletes and soldiers alike.

New Delhi, October 22, 2025: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh today formally conferred the insignia of the Honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army upon India’s star javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra during a pipping ceremony held at South Block, New Delhi.

Addressing the ceremony, Rajnath Singh described Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra as “an epitome of perseverance, patriotism, and the Indian spirit of striving for excellence.” He praised Chopra for his dedication, discipline, and the glory he has brought to the nation through his sporting achievements.

The Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, along with senior officials from the Indian Army and Territorial Army, were present at the event.

Enrolled in the Indian Army’s Rajputana Rifles in 2016, Neeraj Chopra has consistently demonstrated a deep sense of duty and humility while achieving unprecedented milestones in athletics. Born on December 24, 1997, in Khandra village, Panipat (Haryana), Chopra’s rise to global fame began with his historic Gold Medal at the Tokyo Olympics (2020) — India’s first in track and field.

He continued his remarkable journey by winning Silver at the Paris Olympics (2024) and Gold at the World Athletics Championships (2023). Chopra has also claimed multiple Golds at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Diamond League events, with his personal best throw of 90.23 metres (2025) marking a new benchmark for Indian athletics.

Recognizing his extraordinary contributions to sports and the nation, President Smt Droupadi Murmu granted him the Honorary Commission in the Territorial Army on April 16, 2025. Neeraj Chopra’s illustrious list of honours includes the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal.

The conferment of this honorary military rank highlights the synergy between the spirit of sportsmanship and the ethos of service to the nation — both of which Neeraj Chopra continues to exemplify with pride and humility.