New Delhi: Neeraj Chopra, the reigning Olympic Champion in javelin throw, received the Padma Shri award from President Ram Nath Kovind on Monday at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Pramod Bhagat, the first Indian to win a gold medal in para-badminton, was also conferred with the honour alongside Neeraj.
Neeraj made history at the Tokyo Olympics
At the Tokyo Olympics, Neeraj Chopra made history by throwing a spear 87.58 m away, winning the gold medal. He has become the second Indian to win an individual gold at the Olympics. Before him, Abhinav Bindra had won a gold medal for India in shooting at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.
These awards are given in various disciplines and activities areas such as art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, business and industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil services, etc. 'Padma Vibhushan' is awarded for exceptional and distinguished service. 'Padma Bhushan' is given for distinguished service of high quality and 'Padma Shri' for distinguished service in any field. The awards are announced every year on the occasion of Republic Day.
The awards are presented by the President of India at formal ceremonies held at Rashtrapati Bhavan. A total of 128 Padma awards are being awarded this year.