National Awards 2025: Honoring India’s Exceptional Paralympic Athletes for Their Stellar Achievements
Praveen Kumar Honored with Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award for Outstanding Achievements in Para Athletics
In 2025, Praveen Kumar, the extraordinary para-athlete from India, was honoured with the prestigious Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, India’s highest sporting honor. This recognition is a testament to his outstanding achievements in para-sports, particularly in the high jump, where he has made an indelible mark on the global stage.
Praveen Kumar’s journey to the pinnacle of para-sports has been one of immense dedication, perseverance, and resilience. Known for his exceptional performances, Praveen has been a standout figure in Indian para-athletics. His career reached a new milestone when he won a gold medal in the high jump event at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, following his silver medal at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics. His ability to overcome significant challenges in his personal and professional life has made him an inspiration to millions of aspiring athletes, especially in the realm of adaptive sports.
Praveen’s rise to fame was not a simple journey. Despite facing obstacles due to his disability, he remained focused and determined to achieve greatness. His passion for high jump and his relentless work ethic helped him overcome these challenges and attain a level of excellence that has earned him global recognition. His performances have not only brought pride to India but have also contributed to raising the profile of para-sports across the world.
Winning the Khel Ratna Award in 2025 is the culmination of Praveen Kumar’s tireless efforts and his remarkable success in the world of para-athletics. This prestigious honor highlights his exceptional achievements and solidifies his place among India’s sporting greats. Praveen’s gold medal at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games was a momentous achievement, further showcasing his skill, discipline, and determination. His victory is an example of how sports can transcend physical limitations, emphasizing the power of mental strength and resilience.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Praveen Kumar’s story is one of triumph over adversity. His success has inspired countless individuals, both within India and around the world, to pursue their dreams regardless of the challenges they may face. Praveen continues to be a powerful advocate for inclusivity in sports, encouraging more people with disabilities to participate in competitive sports and showcasing that excellence is achievable for all.
Receiving the Khel Ratna Award in 2025 is a reflection of Praveen Kumar’s tremendous contributions to Indian sports. It is an acknowledgment of his hard work, sacrifice, and the impact he has had in bringing attention to para-sports in the country. As one of India’s brightest para-athletes, Praveen’s legacy is not only defined by his medals and records but also by the hope and inspiration he provides to future generations of athletes.
Arjuna Award 2025: Recognizing India’s Exceptional Paralympic Athletes
The Arjuna Awards, one of India’s most prestigious honors for outstanding achievements in sports, celebrated the remarkable contributions of several Paralympic athletes in 2025. These athletes have demonstrated unparalleled dedication, perseverance, and excellence in their respective sports, bringing immense pride to the nation.
Para-Archery
Rakesh Kumar – A prominent name in Indian para-archery, Rakesh Kumar was honored with the Arjuna Award for his consistent performances on the international stage. His contributions to the sport, including his medal-winning efforts at the Paralympics, have significantly elevated India’s status in para-archery.
Para-Athletics
India’s para-athletics contingent saw an impressive representation in the Arjuna Awards 2025, with multiple athletes being recognized for their achievements:
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- Preeti Pal – Honored for her excellence in track and field events, Preeti Pal has been a key contributor to India’s success in para-athletics.
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- Jeevanji Deepthi – A record-breaking sprinter, Deepthi’s incredible performances in the 400m T20 category made her a deserving recipient of the award.
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- Ajeet Singh – Recognized for his outstanding performances in javelin throw, Ajeet Singh has been a force to reckon with in international para-athletics.
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- Sachin Sarjerao Khilari – A standout performer in shot put, Khilari’s dominance in field events has earned him a well-deserved place among the awardees.
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- Dharambir – A champion in para-athletics, Dharambir’s contributions to track and field have further strengthened India’s reputation in adaptive sports.
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- Pranav Soorma – Excelling in wheelchair racing and throwing events, Pranav Soorma’s achievements have been instrumental in bringing glory to Indian para-sports.
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- Hokato Hotozhe Sema – A formidable athlete in para-athletics, Hokato’s achievements have helped in further popularizing the sport in India.
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- Simran Sharma – Known for her blistering pace in sprinting events, Simran Sharma’s resilience and success at the international level have made her a notable recipient of the Arjuna Award.
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- Navdeep Singh – A highly skilled javelin thrower, Navdeep Singh’s contribution to para-athletics has been recognized with this prestigious honor.
Para-Badminton
Para-badminton continues to be a strong domain for India, and the following athletes were honored for their significant contributions:
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- Nitesh Kumar – A champion in para-badminton, Nitesh Kumar has consistently delivered exceptional performances on the global stage.
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- Thulasimathi Murugesan – Recognized for her achievements in para-badminton, she has been instrumental in India’s growing dominance in the sport.
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- Nithya Sre Sivan – Her skills and performances have made her a role model in para-badminton, earning her a well-deserved Arjuna Award.
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- Manisha Ramadass – One of India’s most promising para-badminton players, Manisha’s success has played a vital role in enhancing India’s reputation in the sport.
Para-Judo
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- Kapil Parmar – A leading para-judoka, Kapil Parmar’s success at international events has been recognized with the Arjuna Award.
Para-Shooting
India’s para-shooting excellence was acknowledged with the recognition of two outstanding athletes:
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- Mona Agarwal – A precision shooter, Mona Agarwal’s skills and consistent performances in major tournaments earned her this prestigious honor.
- Rubina Francis – A standout name in para-shooting, Rubina Francis has not only won international accolades but also inspired future generations of para-shooters in India.
Dronacharya Award
Subhash Rana: The Coach Who Changed Indian Para Shooting
Subhash Rana, is a celebrated para shooting coach, He was awarded the Dronacharya Award for his outstanding contribution in Sports. Known for his dedication and innovative coaching, Rana has inspire athletes with disabilities to achieve greatness.
His most notable achievement is mentoring Avani Lekhara, the first Indian woman to win a Paralympic gold (Tokyo 2020) in shooting. Under Rana’s guidance, Avani won gold in the 10m Air Rifle and bronze in the 50m Rifle events, making India proud.
Rana’s work goes beyond medals. He has built a strong foundation for para shooting in India, advocated for better facilities and inclusivity in sports. His efforts have inspired countless athletes and coaches, proving that disability is no barrier to success.
Subhash Rana’s legacy is one of passion and perseverance, inspiring future generations to dream big and achieve more.
