Game Changers: Khel Ratna For Hockey, Arjuna For India’s Rising Stars

The National Sports Awards 2025 shortlist reflects India’s evolving sporting landscape. Hardik Singh, a midfield dynamo and part of India’s medal‑winning squads at the Tokyo and Paris Olympics, as well as the Asia Cup gold‑winning team in 2025, stands out as the only Khel Ratna recommendation. The Arjuna list spans emerging stars and trailblazers, with notable inclusions from chess, athletics, and Yogasan.  

Major takeaways  
• Hardik Singh, India men’s hockey vice‑captain, sole nominee for Khel Ratna 2025  
• 24 athletes recommended for Arjuna Awards, including Divya Deshmukh (chess) and Tejaswin Shankar (decathlon)  
• First‑ever Yogasan athlete, Aarti Pal, nominated for Arjuna Award  
• No cricketers featured in this year’s shortlist, continuing a trend since 2023  
• Selection committee included Olympians Gagan Narang, Aparna Popat, and MM Somaya  

Impact  
The recommendations highlight India’s broadening recognition of sports beyond cricket, celebrating athletes who have excelled globally and domestically. Hardik Singh’s nomination underscores hockey’s resurgence, while the diverse Arjuna list reflects India’s commitment to nurturing talent across traditional and emerging disciplines.  

Sources: Outlook India, India Today, Indian Express, Sportstar (The Hindu)