Neeraj Chopra Conferred Honorary Rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Territorial Army
India’s Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra has been conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, honoring his sporting excellence and service to the nation.
A Soldier in Spirit and Sport
India’s golden boy, Neeraj Chopra, has added yet another laurel to his name — this time, not from a javelin throw but from the nation itself. On October 22, 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally conferred upon him the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army during a ceremony at South Block, New Delhi.
The honor signifies more than a title — it’s a tribute to an athlete who has become a symbol of national pride, discipline, and service. From the tracks of Tokyo to the parade grounds of the Territorial Army, Chopra’s journey embodies India’s spirit of perseverance and patriotism.
From Naib Subedar to Lieutenant Colonel (Hony): The Journey of Dedication
Chopra’s association with the Indian Army began long before this honor. He joined the force as a Naib Subedar on August 26, 2016, following his early successes in athletics. His steady rise within the ranks — Subedar in 2021 and Subedar Major in 2022 — mirrored his meteoric ascent in the sporting world.
Born on December 24, 1997, in Khandra village, Panipat (Haryana), Chopra etched his name into India’s history books when he won the country’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in athletics during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. It was a moment that transcended sport, uniting a billion people in pride.
A Golden Trail: From Tokyo to Paris
Chopra’s achievements didn’t stop with that historic throw. He went on to win a gold medal at the 2023 World Athletics Championships and a silver medal at the Paris Olympics in 2024, reaffirming his dominance in the global arena. His personal best throw of 90.23 metres (2025) stands as a landmark in Indian sporting history — a testament to precision, power, and perseverance.
Alongside global triumphs, he has also clinched multiple gold medals at the Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Diamond League events, setting a new benchmark for Indian athletes on the world stage.
Honored by the Nation: A Soldier’s Commission
Recognizing his outstanding achievements and service to India, President Droupadi Murmu granted Chopra an honorary commission in the Territorial Army on April 16, 2025. The honor places him among a distinguished league of sportspersons who have bridged the worlds of athletics and armed service, embodying both excellence and duty.
The conferral ceremony, graced by senior defence officials and dignitaries, highlighted the synergy between sportsmanship and soldiering — values that Neeraj Chopra personifies effortlessly.
The Territorial Army: Citizens in Uniform
The Territorial Army (TA), often described as the “citizens’ army,” provides an opportunity for India’s working professionals to contribute to the nation’s defence in times of need.
Formed under the Territorial Army Act on August 18, 1948, and formally raised on October 9, 1949, the TA enables gainfully employed citizens to undergo part-time military training, preparing them to serve during national emergencies or internal disturbances.
With a current strength of approximately 50,000 personnel, the TA has played a crucial role in wars of 1962, 1965, and 1971, earning numerous awards for valor and service. It remains a symbol of India’s collective commitment to defence and discipline.
Awards and Honors: A Legacy Beyond Medals
Neeraj Chopra’s wall of fame is already decorated with India’s most prestigious honors — Padma Shri, Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Arjuna Award, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, and Vishisht Seva Medal.
But beyond the trophies and titles, it is his humility and dedication that have made him a national role model. His commitment to both sport and service continues to inspire millions, particularly India’s youth, who see in him a living example of how perseverance and patriotism can coexist.
Nationwide Pride and Public Reaction
Across social media, fans and fellow athletes lauded the decision to honor Chopra with a military rank. Sports analysts praised the move as a “fitting acknowledgment of an athlete who has done as much for India’s morale as for its medal tally.”
Defence officials echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing that Chopra’s discipline and leadership mirror the core values of the Indian Army — courage, commitment, and honor.
Impact: Strengthening the Bridge Between Sports and Service
Chopra’s honorary commission highlights a growing recognition of the role of sports in nation-building. His inclusion in the Territorial Army symbolizes the confluence of physical excellence and civic duty, reminding citizens that serving the nation takes many forms — whether through military discipline or Olympic glory.
It also reflects a broader trend of honoring sportspersons who inspire unity and resilience, values that align with the spirit of India’s armed forces.
Conclusion: A Hero in Every Uniform
Neeraj Chopra’s journey from a small village in Haryana to becoming an Olympic champion and now Lieutenant Colonel (Honorary) is not merely a story of athletic triumph but of national pride.
He stands as a reminder that true greatness lies not only in records and medals but in character and service. Whether wielding a javelin or donning a uniform, Chopra continues to redefine what it means to be a modern Indian hero — grounded, courageous, and relentlessly driven by the call of the nation.
Disclaimer:This article is based on publicly available official statements and verified information. The author does not hold any affiliation with the Ministry of Defence or the Indian Army.