North India Statesman
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The Sports Ministry on Thursday announced the names of players for this year’s Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Shooter Manu Bhaker, world chess champion D. Gukesh, Indian men’s hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh, and para athlete Praveen Kumar have been selected for this prestigious honour.
Manu Bhaker: Story from struggle to success
There was a lot of discussion and controversy over the name of Manu Bhakar. Initially his name was not included in the nomination list for the award. Manu later clarified that he had made a mistake during the nomination, which was corrected.
22-year-old Manu Bhaker performed brilliantly at the Paris Olympics 2024, winning bronze medals in the 10m air pistol individual and mixed team events. She became the first player from independent India to win two medals in the same Olympics.
Harmanpreet Singh: India’s continued success in hockey
Under the captaincy of Harmanpreet Singh, the Indian men’s hockey team made the country proud by winning a medal in the Paris Olympics for the second consecutive time. His efficient strategies and team leadership placed Indian hockey firmly on the global stage.
D. Gukesh: Shining star of the chess world
18 year old D. Gukesh became the youngest chess world champion. Last year, the Indian team won a historic gold medal in the Chess Olympiad, in which Gukesh played an important role. His achievement is considered historic not only for India but in the world of chess.
Praveen Kumar: Golden leap in para athletics
Para high jumper Praveen Kumar brought glory to the country by winning gold medal in T64 category in Paris Paralympics 2024. The T64 category is a category for athletes who do not have one or both legs below the knee and run with the help of artificial legs. This achievement of Praveen is a source of inspiration.
Announcement of awards ceremony
An official release issued by the Sports Ministry said that the winners will be honored at a special ceremony to be held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17, 2025.
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is the country’s highest sporting honour, given to recognize the outstanding performance of sportspersons and their contribution to the country. The achievements of these players are not only the result of their hard work, but are also a source of inspiration for millions of youth.
