New Delhi: India’s best-performing athletes were conferred with the national sports awards by President Droupadi Murmu in a regal ceremony on Tuesday where cricketer Mohammed Shami walked into rapturous applause at the Rashtrapati Bhawan.
The awards ceremony, usually held on August 29 to commemorate the birth anniversary of hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, was deferred because of the Hangzhou Asian Games from September 23 to October 8 last year.
A Stellar Lineup:
- Cricket: Mohammed Shami, the veteran swing bowler, finally receives his due after consistent performances over the years. His instrumental role in India’s recent Asian Games success solidified his nomination.
- Athletics: Murali Sreeshankar and Parul Chaudhary, both long jumpers, etched their names in history with impressive medal hauls at the Asian Games.
- Archery: Young stars Aditi Swami and Ojas Pravin Deotale, both under 18, have already made waves with their extraordinary displays of precision and composure.
- Shooting: Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar and Esha Singh, representing pistol and rifle disciplines respectively, continue to dominate the national and international circuits, earning them well-deserved recognition.
- Wrestling: Sunil Kumar (Greco-Roman) and Antim Panghal (women’s freestyle) showcased grit and skill on the wrestling mat, adding Arjuna Awards to their growing list of accolades.
- Other Sports: Ayhika Mukherjee (table tennis), Harinder Pal Singh Sandhu (squash), and Roshibina Devi (wushu) round out the diverse list, proving that sporting excellence flourishes across various domains.
The Arjuna Awards serve not only as a mark of individual achievement but also as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes. These ten trailblazers represent the dedication, perseverance, and talent that lies within India’s youth. Their stories will resonate with countless budding athletes, encouraging them to strive for excellence and push the boundaries of their chosen sport.
The 2024 Arjuna Award winners offer a glimpse into the bright future of Indian sports. This recognition serves as a crucial stepping stone, providing motivation and resources for them to continue their ascent on the global stage. With continued support and infrastructure development, these champions, and the young talents inspired by them, hold the potential to propel India to even greater heights in the world of sports.
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