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Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award: A Landmark for Indian Football

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Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award: A Landmark for Indian Football

  • 27 May, 2024
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The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is the highest sporting honor in India, named after the legendary hockey player Dhyan Chand. This prestigious accolade recognizes exceptional achievements in sports, celebrating athletes who have excelled and brought pride to the nation through their international performances.

Sunil Chhetri and the Khel Ratna Award

Sunil Chhetri, a prominent figure in Indian football, received the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2021. This milestone made him the only footballer to ever receive this honor, reflecting his outstanding career and immense contributions to Indian football.

With 94 international goals, Chhetri ranks fourth among all-time international goalscorers, behind global icons such as Lionel Messi, Ali Daei, and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Significance of Chhetri's Achievement

The awarding of the Khel Ratna to Chhetri not only highlights his individual talent but also signifies a growing recognition of football in India, a nation traditionally dominated by cricket. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes, especially footballers, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can lead to both national and international recognition.

Impact of the Award on Indian Football

Recognizing a footballer with such a prestigious award has significant implications for the sport's development in India. It inspires a new generation of footballers and boosts interest and investment in the sport nationwide. Such recognition is crucial for elevating football's status, encouraging more youth to pursue the sport professionally.

In conclusion, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award bestowed upon Sunil Chhetri not only celebrates his remarkable contributions but also signifies a pivotal moment for Indian football, showcasing its potential and future possibilities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award?
Answer: The Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award is India's highest sporting honor, recognizing exceptional achievements in sports and celebrating athletes' contributions to the nation.

Q2. Who is Sunil Chhetri?
Answer: Sunil Chhetri is a prominent Indian footballer and the only footballer to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, recognized for his significant contributions to Indian football.

Q3. Why is the Khel Ratna Award important for Indian football?
Answer: The Khel Ratna Award's recognition of a footballer elevates the sport's status in India, inspiring young athletes and encouraging investment in football development across the country.

Q4. How many goals has Sunil Chhetri scored internationally?
Answer: Sunil Chhetri has scored 94 international goals, making him one of the top international goalscorers in football history, alongside legends like Messi and Ronaldo.

Q5. What impact did Chhetri's award have on young athletes?
Answer: Chhetri's receipt of the Khel Ratna Award serves as an inspiration for young athletes, especially in football, demonstrating that hard work and dedication can lead to great achievements.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: Who is the only footballer to receive the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award?
A) Sunil Chhetri
B) Lionel Messi
C) Cristiano Ronaldo
D) Bhaichung Bhutia
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: In what year did Sunil Chhetri receive the Khel Ratna Award?
A) 2019
B) 2020
C) 2021
D) 2022
Correct Answer: C

Question 3: What does the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award recognize?
A) Financial contributions to sports
B) Outstanding achievements in sports
C) Coaching excellence
D) Sports administration
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: How many international goals does Sunil Chhetri have?
A) 80
B) 90
C) 94
D) 100
Correct Answer: C

Question 5: What impact does the Khel Ratna Award have on Indian football?
A) Decreases interest in football
B) Elevates the status of football in India
C) Limits investment in sports
D) Encourages youth to avoid football
Correct Answer: B

Question 6: Which sport is primarily associated with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award?
A) Cricket
B) Hockey
C) Football
D) Badminton
Correct Answer: B

Question 7: Who was Dhyan Chand?
A) A famous cricketer
B) A legendary hockey player
C) A football coach
D) A sports journalist
Correct Answer: B

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