Neeraj Chopra Conferred Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Rank in Territorial Army
Following his historic gold medal win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, the 27-year-old athlete was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal by the Indian Army in 2022
New Delhi: Defence minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday formally conferred the insignia of Honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army upon star javelin thrower and two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra during a pipping ceremony held at South Block.
Interacting with Lt Col (Hony) Chopra and his family members, the defence minister described him as an epitome of perseverance, patriotism, and the Indian spirit of excellence.
“Lt Col (Hony) Chopra embodies the highest ideals of discipline, dedication, and national pride, serving as an inspiration to generations within the sporting fraternity and the Armed Forces alike,” Singh said.
Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and senior officials from the Indian Army and Territorial Army were present on the occasion.
Enrolled in the Indian Army in 2016, Lt Col (Hony) Chopra has served with The Rajputana Rifles. Born on December 24, 1997, in Khandra village, Panipat district, Haryana, he has brought immense pride to the nation and the Armed Forces through his exceptional achievements in international athletics.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions and service to the nation, Lt Col (Hony) Chopra was granted an Honorary Commission in the Territorial Army by President Droupadi Murmu on April 16.
He has previously been honoured with the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal.
