Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Awardees Announced 2024

Men’s hockey captain Harmanpreet Singh and Paralympic gold medalist Praveen Kumar have been nominated for the prestigious Khel Ratna award. Additionally, Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker and chess world champion D. Gukesh are included among the four athletes recognized with the Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, as announced by India’s Sports Ministry on January 2, 2025.
The Indian government has revealed the recipients of the esteemed Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award for 2024, recognizing outstanding achievements in the realm of sports.
Awardees and Their Contributions
Manu Bhaker (Shooting): Manu Bhaker etched her name in history at the Paris 2024 Olympics by becoming the first Indian athlete since Independence to secure two medals in a single Olympic event.
Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey): As the captain of the Indian men’s hockey team, Harmanpreet Singh guided the squad to a second consecutive Olympic bronze medal in Paris.
Praveen Kumar (Para Athletics): Praveen Kumar achieved gold in the men’s high jump T64 category at the Paris Paralympics, establishing a new Asian record.
D Gukesh (Chess): D Gukesh has risen as a significant player in the chess arena, attaining impressive milestones and enhancing India’s reputation within the international chess community.