Rashtrapati Bhawan, January 09, 2024: In a vibrant celebration of athletic excellence, President Droupadi Murmu conferred the prestigious National Sports Awards upon India’s most acclaimed sportspersons on Tuesday. The ceremony, usually held on August 29th, was delayed due to the Hangzhou Asian Games, yet the anticipation and excitement remained palpable.
Badminton Duo Soar with Top Honors: The coveted Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting recognition, went to the rising badminton stars Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy. Their dazzling 2023, marked by victories at the Indonesia Open Super 1000, the Asian Championships, and a historic Asian Games gold, sealed their place amongst the sporting elite.
Shami’s World Cup Prowess Earns Arjuna Award: Team India’s fast bowler Mohammed Shami received the Arjuna Award, the second-highest sporting honor, for his sensational performance at the ICC Men’s ODI World Cup 2023. His title of leading wicket-taker, with 24 scalps at an astounding average, cemented his status as a bowling powerhouse.
A Constellation of Champions: Beyond Shami, a diverse array of athletes claimed the Arjuna Award, showcasing India’s sporting depth. Para-archer Sheetal Devi, the first international para-archer without upper limbs to achieve such glory, and boxer Mohammad Hussamuddin, a World Championship bronze medalist, were among the distinguished recipients.
Missing Stars and Rising Hopefuls: Esha Singh, a 19-year-old pistol shooting prodigy who secured Olympic qualification in Jakarta, was a notable absentee while competing abroad. Nevertheless, the ceremony pulsated with the promise of future triumphs, as rising stars like archer Ojas Pravin, with his double Asian Games gold, and shooter Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, a four-medal hero at the Asiad, were duly recognized.
Honoring Mentors and Adventure: The Dronacharya Award, recognizing exceptional coaches, went to chess coach RB Ramesh, who nurtured prodigies like Praggnanandhaa, and kabaddi coach Edachery Bhaskaran. In a poignant tribute, the Tenzing Norgay National Adventure Award was posthumously awarded to Savita Kanswal, the first Indian woman to scale Mount Everest and Makalu within 16 days, who tragically passed away in 2022.
Tuesday’s ceremony wasn’t just about trophies and accolades; it was a powerful testament to the unwavering spirit, indomitable talent, and relentless dedication of India’s diverse sporting landscape. As these champions stand tall, their achievements inspire a nation and paint a vibrant future for Indian sports.
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