India’s javelin sensation and Olympic gold medallist, Neeraj Chopra, was today bestowed with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army. The pipping ceremony was held at South Block in New Delhi, attended by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi. Neeraj’s family also witnessed the special occasion, during which Rajnath Singh praised the athlete as a true symbol of perseverance and patriotism.
The appointment, as per the Gazette of India—a weekly public journal and the official legal record of the Government of India—was effective from April 16. This recognition highlights Neeraj’s outstanding contribution to Indian sports and his continued association with the Indian Army.
Neeraj Chopra initially joined the Indian Army in August 2016 as a junior commissioned officer, holding the rank of Naib Subedar. Over the years, he has not only brought laurels to the country on the international stage but has also remained a committed officer, embodying the values of discipline and dedication.
