The prestigious Khel Ratna Award for 2024 will honor four exceptional athletes, including shooting star Manu Bhaker and chess prodigy D Gukesh. Joining them are hockey player Harmanpreet Singh and para-athlete Praveen Kumar. These athletes will be recognized for their incredible contributions to sports during a grand ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17.
Manu Bhaker and D Gukesh Shine Bright
Manu Bhaker made history at the Paris Olympics by becoming the first Indian female athlete to secure two bronze medals in a single edition of the Games. Her exceptional performance in shooting has earned her this top honor.
On the other hand, D Gukesh achieved a historic milestone in chess by defeating China’s Ding Liren to become the youngest world champion at just 18 years old. His remarkable achievement in December 2023 has made him a standout figure in Indian sports.
Harmanpreet Singh and Praveen Kumar Join the Elite List
Harmanpreet Singh, a vital player in India’s bronze-winning hockey team at the Paris Olympics, scored an impressive 10 goals during the tournament. His leadership on the field played a crucial role in the team’s success.
Para-athlete Praveen Kumar, known for his stellar performance in the High Jump T64 category, broke the Asian record to clinch a gold medal. His dedication and achievements have earned him a well-deserved spot among the Khel Ratna Awardees.
Arjuna Awards 2024: Recognizing Excellence Across Sports
This year, 32 players from various disciplines have been selected for the Arjuna Award. Among them are athletes who have excelled in their respective fields, as well as two lifetime achievers, Murlikant Petkar (para-swimming) and Suchi Singh (athletics).
Notable Arjuna Award Winners
- Athletics: Jyoti Yaraji, Annu Rani
- Boxing: Neetu Ghanghas, Sweety Boora
- Hockey: Salima Tete, Abhishek, Jarmanpreet Singh
- Para-Athletics: Preeti Pal, Dharambir, Navdeep Singh
- Shooting: Swapnil Kusale, Rubina Francis
- Swimming: Sajan Prakash
- Wrestling: Aman Sehrawat
Celebrating Sports Achievements in India
The Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awards continue to highlight the exceptional talent and hard work of Indian athletes. This year’s recipients have not only made the country proud but have also inspired countless aspiring sports enthusiasts.
The awards ceremony promises to be a celebration of determination, skill, and the indomitable spirit of Indian sports.
