Neeraj Chopra Honoured with Honorary Lt Col Rank in Territorial Army

Neeraj Chopra’s association with the Indian Army dates back to 2016, when he was enrolled into the Rajputana Rifles—one of the most distinguished regiments of the Indian Army.

 

In a moment of immense pride for the nation and the armed forces, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh formally conferred the Honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army upon India’s star javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra. The prestigious pipping ceremony was held at South Block, New Delhi on October 22, 2025, attended by senior military officials, including Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, alongside Chopra’s family and dignitaries from the sporting and defence communities.

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A Ceremony Symbolising National Pride

During the event, Raksha Mantri lauded Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra for embodying the core values of discipline, perseverance, patriotism, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—traits revered both in the sporting arena and the armed forces.

“Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra is an epitome of the Indian spirit — resilient, patriotic, and driven to achieve greatness. His achievements inspire not only athletes but also the young soldiers and citizens of India,” said Shri Rajnath Singh in his address.

The ceremony reflected the convergence of two powerful domains—sports and national service—as Neeraj was formally inducted into the elite fraternity of armed forces personnel honoured for exceptional civilian service.

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From Soldier to Sporting Legend

Neeraj Chopra’s association with the Indian Army dates back to 2016, when he was enrolled into the Rajputana Rifles—one of the most distinguished regiments of the Indian Army. Even as he trained and served as a soldier, Neeraj continued his meteoric rise in athletics, making history with every throw.

Born on 24 December 1997 in Khandra village, Panipat district of Haryana, Neeraj’s journey from rural India to the world stage is a testament to grit, determination, and unwavering discipline.

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A Career Etched in Gold — and Silver

Neeraj Chopra’s name is now synonymous with India’s global emergence in track and field events. His breakthrough Olympic Gold in javelin throw at the Tokyo 2020 Games made him the first Indian to win an Olympic medal in athletics. He followed this with:

• Silver Medal at the Paris Olympics 2024

• Gold at the 2023 World Athletics Championships

• Multiple Gold Medals in the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Diamond League circuits

• A personal best throw of 90.23 metres in 2025, which is a historic national record and places him among the top javelin throwers in the world

His consistent performances on the international stage have not only elevated India’s sporting profile but have also made javelin a mainstream sport in a country historically dominated by cricket.

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Recognition Fit for a National Hero

In recognition of his trailblazing achievements, Neeraj has been decorated with some of the nation’s highest civilian and military honours, including:

• Padma Shri

• Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

• Arjuna Award

• Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM)

• Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM)

Earlier this year, on April 16, 2025, President Smt Droupadi Murmu officially approved the conferral of the Honorary Commission in the Territorial Army upon Neeraj Chopra, a rare honour reserved for those who have made extraordinary contributions to national prestige.

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A Role Model for the Nation

The conferment of the Honorary Lieutenant Colonel rank is not just a recognition of Neeraj’s sporting achievements, but also a tribute to his embodiment of the armed forces' values of selfless service, physical excellence, and leadership. Through his humility, fitness, and unwavering commitment to national pride, Neeraj has become a youth icon and a symbol of modern Indian patriotism.

By wearing the olive green, Neeraj joins a select group of civilians and sportspersons who have received such an honour, bridging the gap between athletic glory and military service.

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Looking Ahead: Inspiring Future Generations

As Neeraj Chopra dons the uniform of the Territorial Army with pride, he stands not only as a champion athlete but as a beacon of inspiration for millions of Indians—reminding them that service to the nation comes in many forms.

His induction into the military marks a milestone in India’s sporting and defence history, where the nation's heroes are celebrated not only for their medals but for their embodiment of national ideals.