Neeraj Chopra formally conferred honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Territorial Army
Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra was on Wednesday formally conferred with the insignia of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army during the pipping ceremony in South Block, New Delhi
Enrolled in the Indian Army in 2016, Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj Chopra has served with The Rajputana Rifles of the Indian Army.
“Lt Col (Hony) Neeraj 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,” said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi and other senior officials of the Indian Army and Territorial Army were present on the occasion.
The star javelin thrower created history by becoming the first Indian athlete to win an Olympic gold medal in track and field at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Lt. Col. (Hony) Neeraj Chopra was granted Honorary commission in the Territorial Army by President Droupadi Murmu on April 16, 2025. Earlier, he was also conferred with the Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal and Vishisht Seva Medal.
Neeraj has also won a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics after he clinched gold at the 2023 World Athletics Championships. His Personal Best stands at 90.23 metres which he achieved during this year’s Doha Diamond League.
Published on Oct 22, 2025