Neeraj Chopra was given the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army.

Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra has now been given the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army by the Indian government, starting from April 16, 2025. This honour is given to him for all the great things he has done for Indian athletics and because he has made the country proud. Neeraj, who is from Haryana, has already won an Olympic gold medal at the 2020 Olympics, a World Championship title in 2023, and got a silver medal at the 2024 Olympics in Paris. Previously a Subedar Major in the Indian Army, this honorary rank is given to show how the government wants to thank Notable figures like cricketer M.S. Dhoni have also been given the same awards.

Context

• Neeraj Chopra was given the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel according to the Territorial Army Regulations, 1948 (Para-31).

• The received honour reflects his success in sports and his service to his country.

Key Points

• The received honour reflects his success in sports and his service to his country.

• The Territorial Army is made up of volunteers who help the Indian Army in times of war, offer emergency relief, and aid in nation-building.

  • Neeraj’s key achievements include:

  • Olympic Gold Medal at Tokyo 2020

  • World Championship Title in Budapest, 2023

  • Olympic Silver Medal at Paris 2024

• Before his promotion, he served in the Indian Army as a Subedar Major.

• Being in an honorary rank, Neeraj can take part in ceremonies held within the military.

• Lt. General Sadhu Pahari, the Permanent Secretary to the Ministry of Defence, officially declared the news on May 13, 2025.

• In 2011, cricketer M.S. Dhoni was given the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel by the Indian army.

• By receiving this honour, the relations among civil and armed forces improve, inspiring youth and those who dream of becoming athletes.

Conclusion

Giving Neeraj Chopra the rank of Lieutenant Colonel is a way to honor everything he has accomplished. By this, India shows respect for excellence in various areas and links sports, national pride, and serving in the military.