Neeraj Chopra and Parul Chaudhary Shine at Indian Athletics Awards

Celebrating Excellence in Indian Athletics

On June 21, the inaugural Indian Athletics Awards took place in New Delhi, where Neeraj Chopra and Parul Chaudhary were honored as the Best Male and Female Athletes, respectively. The event also recognized Shahnavaz Khan and Pooja as the Best Emerging Athletes during a glamorous ceremony.

The awards were presented by Mansukh Mandaviya, the Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports, and were organized by the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). The event was graced by notable figures, including World Athletics Vice President Adille J Sumariwalla and other dignitaries from the athletics community.

Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya remarked on the remarkable growth of Indian athletics over the past decade, highlighting the athletes' world-class performances. He emphasized that the Indian Athletics Awards serve as a tribute to those contributing to this progress.

During the ceremony, several legendary athletes, including Gurbachan Singh Randhawa and P T Usha, received Lifetime Achievement Awards for their significant contributions to the sport.

AFI President Bahadur Singh Sagoo stated that the awards aim to celebrate excellence and acknowledge all stakeholders in Indian athletics, from athletes to coaches.

Neeraj Chopra expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating that it motivates him to continue striving for excellence. Parul Chaudhary shared her appreciation for the support she has received and hopes to inspire young girls to pursue athletics.

Shahnawaz Khan and Pooja also expressed their pride and motivation from the awards, with Pooja noting the encouragement it provides to aim higher.

P T Usha, a Lifetime Achievement Award recipient, reflected on her journey in athletics and the evolution of the sport in India. Anju Bobby George echoed similar sentiments, expressing hope for the next generation of athletes.

The event brought together prominent figures in Indian athletics, celebrating not only the current season's achievements but also honoring past legends.

Neeraj Chopra and Parul Chaudhary each received a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh, while Shahnawaz Khan and Pooja were awarded Rs 2.50 lakh each. The Lifetime Achievement Award winners also received Rs 5 lakh each.

Additionally, the AFI presented awards in various categories, including Best Coach of the Year and Best State Association of the Year.

Award Winners:

* Best Male Athlete of the Year 2025 – Neeraj Chopra (Rs. 10,00,000)

* Best Female Athlete of the Year 2025 – Parul Chaudhary (Rs. 10,00,000)

* Best Emerging Male Athlete 2025 – Shahnavaz Khan (Rs. 2,50,000)

* Best Emerging Female Athlete 2025 – Pooja (Rs. 2,50,000)

* Lifetime Achievement Athletics Award – P T Usha (Rs. 5,00,000)

* Lifetime Achievement Athletics Award – Gurbachan Singh Randhawa (Rs. 5,00,000)

* Lifetime Achievement Athletics Award – Anju Bobby George (Rs. 5,00,000)

* Lifetime Achievement Athletics Award – Bahadur Singh Chauhan (Rs. 5,00,000).