Olympic Champion Neeraj Chopra Conferred Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Rank in Indian Army

In a proud moment for Indian sports and the armed forces, Olympic gold medallist Neeraj Chopra has been conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army.

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The ceremonial pipping took place on October 22, 2025, in New Delhi, where Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally bestowed the insignia upon the star athlete. The event was attended by senior Army officials, including Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, and highlighted Chopra's outstanding contributions to Indian athletics and his long-standing association with the armed forces.

Neeraj Chopra, who originally joined the Indian Army in 2016 as a Naib Subedar in the Rajputana Rifles, has steadily risen in rank through the years—being promoted to Subedar in 2021 and later to Subedar Major in 2022. His appointment as honorary Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army was officially sanctioned and gazetted earlier this year on April 16, 2025. The conferment marks a significant milestone in his illustrious career, both as a sportsperson and a serviceman.

Speaking at the event, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praised Chopra as a symbol of discipline, patriotism, and perseverance. He described the javelin star as someone who embodies the spirit of modern India—aspirational, committed, and proud of its heritage. “Neeraj Chopra’s achievements have not only brought glory to the nation but have also inspired a generation of youth to pursue excellence,” Singh said.

Neeraj Chopra made history by winning India’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics at the Tokyo 2020 Games and followed it with a silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics. His global achievements in the sport of javelin throw have made him a household name, and his continued association with the Indian Army has added a layer of honour and discipline to his public image.

The honorary rank conferred on Chopra is not merely symbolic—it highlights the deep connection between sports and national service in India. It reflects the Indian Army’s tradition of honouring individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation, both on and off the field. For Neeraj Chopra, this honour further cements his legacy as one of India’s most respected and decorated athletes.