Update on 14 May 2025: Neeraj Chopra Conferred Honorary Lieutenant Colonel Rank by Indian Army
Following Neeraj Chopra’s historic silver medal at the Paris 2024 Olympics, the debate on whether he will be promoted to a commissioned officer rank in the Indian Army has resurfaced. Chopra, who became the fifth Indian athlete to win two Olympic medals, continues to be celebrated as a national hero.
Despite his remarkable achievements, including an Olympic gold in Tokyo 2020, the Indian Army’s regulations require written examinations and interviews for Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) like Chopra to become commissioned officers.
Neeraj Chopra’s Journey and Achievements
Neeraj Chopra, already a Subedar Major in the Indian Army, etched his name in history by winning India’s first-ever athletics gold medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.
His 2024 silver medal, earned with a throw of 89.45m in Paris, solidifies his status as one of India’s greatest athletes. Despite narrowly missing a second consecutive gold, Chopra’s performance has further endeared him to millions.
The Possibility of Promotion
Many of Neeraj Chopra’s supporters and fellow Army officers have called for his promotion to a commissioned officer rank. However, the Army’s strict protocols require JCOs to clear written examinations and interviews to ascend to the commissioned ranks.
Military sources indicate that while Chopra may not bypass these procedures, he could still receive an honorary promotion, similar to the cases of other decorated athletes like Honorary Captain Vijay Kumar Sharma, who was promoted after winning an Olympic medal.
Honorary Promotions and Army Protocol
The Indian Army is known for recognizing the achievements of its personnel, especially those who bring pride to the nation through sports. Honorary ranks like honorary lieutenant and honorary captain are often awarded to distinguished soldiers. Given Chopra’s contributions, it is likely that he will be honored in a similar fashion, though becoming a commissioned officer would require adherence to the Army’s established procedures.
How an OR/JCO (Personnel Below Officer Rank) can become an officer in Indian Army?
To become an officer in the Indian army from a JCO or OR rank one must go through the service entries like ACC Exam, SCO, and PC(SL) Entry. One has to go through the written exam and 5 Days SSB Interview to become an officer in the Indian Army.
Conclusion
While Neeraj Chopra’s Olympic success has reignited discussions about his promotion, the Indian Army’s protocols are clear. Although a direct commission as an officer may not be feasible without the mandatory exams and interviews, Chopra’s exceptional achievements ensure that he remains a celebrated figure within the Army and the country.
His journey from a Subedar Major to a national icon serves as an inspiration to many, and his potential honorary promotion would be a fitting tribute to his contributions.
Will Subedar Neeraj Chopra Get Commissioned Officer Rank In the Indian Army?
