Neeraj Chopra Territorial Army Honour | Lieutenant Colonel Rank

Neeraj Chopra Becomes Lieutenant Colonel in Territorial Army

India’s golden athlete and two-time Olympic medalist Neeraj Chopra has added another prestigious honour to his name. On October 22, 2025, the star javelin thrower was formally conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, in the presence of Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, during a grand pipping ceremony held at South Block, New Delhi.​

The honour, approved earlier by President Droupadi Murmu on April 16, 2025, recognizes Neeraj’s exceptional achievements in athletics and his embodiment of discipline, patriotism, and excellence — virtues that align deeply with the ethos of the Indian Armed Forces.​

A Proud Moment for the Nation
Rajnath Singh praised Neeraj Chopra during the ceremony, describing him as “an epitome of perseverance, patriotism, and the Indian spirit of striving for excellence.” He added that Neeraj’s journey from a small-town athlete to an international icon shows how determination and discipline can turn dreams into national pride.​

Neeraj, while expressing his gratitude, said on social media that the honour was “more than just recognition — it’s a responsibility.” He dedicated the moment to the Indian Armed Forces and the countrymen who have always supported him.

From Naib Subedar to Lieutenant Colonel– Neeraj Chopra

Neeraj Chopra’s relationship with the Indian Army began in 2016, when he was appointed as a Naib Subedar in the 4 Rajputana Rifles — one of the oldest regiments in the Army. His remarkable progress on the track soon reflected in his career; he was promoted to Subedar in 2021 after his Tokyo Olympics triumph and to Subedar Major in 2022, following his consistent global performance.​

By 2025, his achievements and influence had earned him this honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel, joining the distinguished list of Indian sports icons like MS Dhoni and Abhinav Bindra, who also hold honorary Army titles for their contributions to national glory.​

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Career Milestones and Achievements
Born on December 24, 1997, in Khandra village, Panipat district of Haryana, Neeraj Chopra’s rise to stardom has been nothing short of historic. He made sporting history at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where he became the first Indian athlete ever to win a gold medal in track and field. He followed that feat with a gold at the 2023 World Athletics Championships and a silver medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics, further solidifying his status as one of India’s greatest athletes.​

The 27-year-old athlete also holds the Indian national record with a personal best throw of 90.23 metres, achieved earlier this year at the Doha Diamond League in May 2025. His medal cabinet includes victories at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, Diamond League, and Asian Athletics Championships.​

For his contributions to Indian sports, he has received several national honours, including:

• The Arjuna Award (2018)
• The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award (2021)
• The Padma Shri (2022)
• The Param Vishisht Seva Medal (2022)
• The Vishisht Seva Medal (2023).​

The Meaning of the Honour
The Territorial Army (TA) is a part-time voluntary reserve force that supports the regular Indian Army during emergencies and national requirements. Honorary ranks, like the one conferred on Neeraj, are given to distinguished civilians who have brought honour to the nation and reflect the virtues of the armed forces.

This honorary commission does not involve active command duties but serves as a symbolic gesture recognizing the recipient’s service to India beyond their professional field. It also encourages young Indians to uphold discipline, patriotism, and public service.​

A Message to the Youth
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh emphasized that Neeraj Chopra’s life story embodies what young Indians should aspire to — combining hard work, discipline, and unwavering love for the country. He said, “His achievements have inspired an entire generation. This honorary rank symbolizes the armed forces’ respect for sports as a powerful tool of national pride.”

Neeraj Chopra now stands as both an athlete and a national symbol of unity — representing India in the sporting arena and inspiring millions as a member of the armed forces.

As the golden boy of Indian athletics donned his Lieutenant Colonel epaulettes, it wasn’t just an honour for him, but a historic moment for Indian sports. His journey from Panipat’s dusty fields to the Army’s ceremonial stage truly reflects the essence of modern India — discipline, dedication, and pride in the tricolour.

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