India’s Olympic hero Neeraj Chopra added another proud chapter to his story as he was formally decorated with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army. The pipping ceremony, held in New Delhi on Wednesday, was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, who placed the insignia on Chopra’s uniform, which was a moment that blended sporting glory with military pride.
From Track Star to Army Officer
Neeraj’s new honour is more than just a ceremonial event. It’s a recognition of how the 27-year-old javelin thrower has redefined Indian sport with his consistency and grace under pressure.
According to The Gazette of India, the appointment took effect on April 16. Chopra joined the Army on August 26, 2016, as Naib Subedar and rose through the ranks with every milestone he achieved on the field.
He received the Arjuna Award in 2018 and the Khel Ratna in 2021. In the same year, he made history in Tokyo by winning India’s first-ever Olympic gold in athletics. Following that, he was promoted to Subedar Major, honoured with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, and conferred the Padma Shri in 2022.
“Life and Sport Go On”
Though Chopra’s form dipped at the World Athletics Championships this year by finishing eighth with a best throw of 84.03m, his humility and composure stood out. “It happens. Life and sport go on,” he said after the event, admitting he had battled a back issue.
His compatriot Sachin Yadav finished fourth with 86.27m, missing a medal by a whisker.
But for millions of Indians, Chopra’s eighth-place finish changes nothing. From a small-town athlete to a global icon and now a soldier with stars on his shoulder, Neeraj Chopra continues to embody discipline, dedication, and quiet dignity.
