The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is the highest carrying honour in India. It acknowledges athletes who have added incredible performances at global and country wide levels. The award is furnished every year via the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. It is one of the maximum prestigious recognitions for Indian sportspersons and symbolizes excellence, determination, and national pleasure.
In 2021, the award was renamed from the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award to the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, in honour of India’s legendary hockey icon Major Dhyan Chand.
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Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award Summary Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Award Name | Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award |
| Country | India |
| Established | 1991–92 |
| Presented By | President of India |
| Managed By | Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports |
| Purpose | Outstanding sporting performance |
| Cash Prize | ₹25 Lakh |
| First Winner | Viswanathan Anand |
| Highest Honour? | Yes |
What is the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award?
The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is given to sportspersons who show regular excellence over the preceding 4 years on the very quality stage. Winners typically embody Olympic medalists, global champions, and athletes who deliver satisfaction to India through their achievements.
The award includes:
- Medallion
- Certificate
- ₹25 lakh cash praise
- National popularity
Why Was the Award Renamed?
In August 2021, the Government of India renamed the award after Major Dhyan Chand, substantially called the Wizard of Hockey.
Reasons for renaming:
- To honour one in each of India’s finest sporting legends
- To have a good time India’s hockey historical past
- To be part of the award right away with sports activities activities excellence
Dhyan Chand won 3 Olympic gold medals for India in 1928, 1932, and 1936.
Who Was Major Dhyan Chand?
Major Dhyan Chand is regarded as one of the best hockey gamers in records.
Key Facts:
- Born: 29 August 1905
- Sport: Field Hockey
- Nickname: Hockey Wizard
- Olympic Gold Medals: three
- National Sports Day in India is widely known on his birthday
Because of his legendary contribution, naming India’s pinnacle sports activities award after him is taken into consideration substantially appropriate.
Eligibility for Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
To get maintain of the award, athletes ought to exhibit:
Outstanding Achievements
- Olympic medals
- World Championship wins
- Consistent worldwide rating
- Contribution to Indian sports recognition
Selection Process
A committee evaluations nominations from:
- National Sports Federations
- Indian Olympic Association
- Sports Authority of India
- State governments
Final suggestions are common through the Sports Ministry.
Notable Winners of Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
| Year | Winner |
|---|---|
| 1991–92 | Viswanathan Anand |
| 2018 | Virat Kohli |
| 2020 | Rohit Sharma |
| 2023 | Satwiksairaj Rankireddy, Chirag Shetty |
| 2024 | D Gukesh, Manu Bhaker, Harmanpreet Singh, Praveen Kumar |
2026 Latest Update
As of 2026, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award remains India’s top sports honour. It maintains profitable athletes throughout disciplines collectively with:
- Cricket
- Chess
- Shooting
- Hockey
- Badminton
- Athletics
- Paralympic sports
Recent winners like D Gukesh and Manu Bhaker show the growing range of Indian carrying success.
Importance of the Award
The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award evokes young athletes at some stage in India. It represents:
- National pleasure
- Years of tough paintings
- Global wearing excellence
- Recognition from the u . S . A .
Winning the award can also improve sponsorships, career possibilities, and public admiration.
Difference Between Khel Ratna and Arjuna Award
| Award | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award | Highest honour for top sporting excellence |
| Arjuna Award | Recognizes consistent performance and leadership |
| Dhyan Chand Award | Lifetime achievement in sports |
Why This Award Matters in 2026
India is becoming an international sports powerhouse. With more potent Olympic performances and rising stars in many sports activities, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award has emerged as even more precious.
It motivates athletes to dream bigger and represent India proudly on the sector level.
Conclusion
The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is more than simply a trophy—it is the last popularity of sporting excellence in India. Named after hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand, the award honours athletes who encourage the country through performance, subject, and backbone.
As India’s sports surroundings grow in 2026, this prestigious honour maintains to have an awesome time of champions who make records.
FAQs About Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award
1. What is the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award?
Ans. It is the maximum carrying honour in India, awarded to athletes for excellent achievements.
2. When was the award renamed?
Ans. It was renamed in 2021 after Major Dhyan Chand.
3. What is the cash prize of the award?
Ans. Winners get maintenance of ₹25 lakh, in conjunction with a medal and certificate.
4. Who was the number one winner?
Ans. The first recipient was modified into Viswanathan Anand in 1991–1992.
5. Why is Major Dhyan Chand well-known?
Ans. He became India’s legendary hockey participant and gained 3 Olympic gold medals.
