In a grand ceremony, President Draupadi Murmu honored 26 outstanding athletes, including star cricketer Mohammad Shami, with the prestigious Arjuna Awards. Additionally, badminton sensations Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy were conferred with the coveted Khel Ratna Award, the highest sporting honor.
Major Achievements
1. Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy
The badminton duo, Chirag Shetty and Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, were recognized for their stellar performance in 2023. They clinched the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award for their historic gold medal win at the Asian Games, becoming the first Indian pair to achieve such a feat. Their triumph extended to the Asian Championships and Indonesia Open Super 1000, showcasing their dominance in the badminton world.
2. Mohammad Shami
Star Indian cricketer Mohammad Shami, known for his exceptional bowling skills, received the Arjuna Award for his outstanding contributions. Shami played a crucial role in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, emerging as the highest wicket-taker with an impressive tally of 24 wickets. Despite facing challenges with a hamstring injury, Shami is anticipated to participate in the upcoming Test series against England.
Dronacharya Awards for Coaching Excellence
The Dronacharya Awards, recognizing coaching excellence, were also presented in two categories.
Regular Category
- Lalit Kumar (Wrestling): Renowned for coaching prowess in wrestling, Lalit Kumar’s guidance has propelled athletes to success in various national and international competitions.
- Arbi Ramesh (Chess): Acknowledged for his exceptional coaching in chess, Arbi Ramesh has played a pivotal role in nurturing young talents and enhancing India’s standing in international chess competitions.
- Mahavir Prasad Saini (Para Athletics): A commendable coach in para athletics, Mahavir Prasad Saini has contributed significantly to the success of para-athletes, fostering inclusivity in sports.
- Shivendra Singh (Hockey): Recognized for his coaching excellence in hockey, Shivendra Singh has played a vital role in shaping and mentoring hockey talents for national and international competitions.
- Ganesh Prabhakar Devrukhkar (Mallakhamb): Devoted to coaching Mallakhamb, Ganesh Prabhakar Devrukhkar’s expertise has elevated the traditional Indian sport to international recognition.
Lifetime Category
- Jaskeerat Singh Grival (Golf): Acknowledged for his lifetime achievements in coaching golf, Jaskeerat Singh Grival has made significant contributions to the development of golf in India.
- Bhaskaran E (Kabaddi): A stalwart in coaching kabaddi, Bhaskaran E has dedicated his life to the sport, producing numerous accomplished kabaddi players at the national and international levels.
- Jayant Kumar Pushilal (Table Tennis): Celebrated for his lifelong commitment to coaching table tennis, Jayant Kumar Pushilal has nurtured several table tennis talents, contributing to India’s success in the sport.
The National Sports Awards ceremony celebrated the remarkable achievements of athletes and coaches across various sports disciplines. From cricket to badminton and wrestling to chess, the awards highlighted the diverse and exceptional talent within the Indian sports fraternity (a group of people sharing a common profession or interests). The recognition bestowed upon these athletes and coaches serves as inspiration for aspiring talents, emphasizing the importance of dedication and excellence in the pursuit of sporting glory.
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