How Neeraj Chopra Became Lt Colonel from Subedar Major?

When Neeraj Chopra hurled his javelin into Tokyo’s skies in 2021, he didn’t just win India’s first Olympic gold in athletics—he became a national icon. Today, that icon wears not just medals but military insignia. As per the official Gazette of India dated 9th May 2025, Neeraj Chopra has been conferred the Honorary Rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Territorial Army, effective from April 16, 2025.

But what makes this journey from Subedar Major to Lt Col (Honorary) truly remarkable is not just the titles—it’s the legacy behind them.

Neeraj Chopra’s rise is the quintessential Indian dream. Born in Khandra village, Panipat (Haryana), Neeraj joined the Indian Army as a Naib Subedar in 2016 under the sports quota. Despite global fame, he always proudly wore the Army badge, reminding us of his deep-rooted sense of discipline and duty.

While serving, he trained relentlessly—balancing athletic goals with military duties. He was promoted to Subedar, and later Subedar Major, the highest rank among Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs). His service was recognized with military honors like the Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM) and later the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) in 2022.

The notification from the Ministry of Defence makes one detail clear—Neeraj Chopra was not in active service when conferred this rank. It reads:

“...to confer Honorary Rank of Lieutenant Colonel in Territorial Army on Ex-Sub Maj Neeraj Chopra...”

This clarification is critical. In the Indian Army’s hierarchy, there is no provision for a serving Subedar Major to be directly commissioned as a Lieutenant Colonel—honorary or otherwise. Regular soldiers may become officers through special commission or service entry schemes, but always starting at the Lieutenant rank, never higher.

Hence, it’s highly likely that Neeraj voluntarily retired from active duty prior to April 2025, making him eligible for this honorary recognition by the President of India. Such honorary commissions are granted for exemplary public service and national contribution, not for military progression.

By becoming a Lieutenant Colonel (Honorary) in the Territorial Army, Neeraj joins a prestigious league. Previous honorees include:

• MS Dhoni – Lt Col (Honorary), Territorial Army
• Abhinav Bindra – Lt Col (Honorary), Territorial Army
• Kapil Dev – Lt Col (Honorary), Territorial Army
• Sachin Tendulkar – Group Captain (Honorary), Indian Air Force

Such titles acknowledge their inspirational contributions to India’s global image, discipline, and patriotic ethos.

Despite the ceremonial nature of the honorary rank, Neeraj Chopra has consistently demonstrated the core values of a soldier—commitment, resilience, and leadership. Whether postponing public events during national security operations or speaking on youth development and mental strength, his words carry the quiet dignity of a soldier.

He continues to compete at the highest levels, with upcoming events like:

• Doha Diamond League – May 16, 2025
• 71st ORLEN Janusz Kusociński Memorial, Poland – May 23, 2025

Each competition adds to his already formidable reputation, not just as an athlete, but as a role model for India’s youth and armed forces alike.

Neeraj Chopra’s story bridges two of India’s greatest passions—sports and service. His rise from a rural village to Olympic stardom and military honor shows us that true greatness lies not just in personal achievement, but in national service.

In an era of fleeting fame, Neeraj Chopra’s journey stands timeless—a blend of valor, humility, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

From Tokyo’s podium to the Indian Army’s ranks, Neeraj Chopra’s journey is now enshrined in the nation's military and sporting history. He may no longer be an active JCO, but in uniform or not, Neeraj Chopra will always be a soldier in spirit—one who carries the weight of the tricolor with pride and honor.