Khel Ratna Award 2024 Winners List: Check Names, Sports and Game Discipline

The Khel Ratna Award, officially known as the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, is India’s highest sporting honour. 

It was instituted in 1991–1992 to recognise outstanding performance in sports. This prestigious award is given annually by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. It aims to honour athletes who have displayed exceptional skill, dedication, and achievement in their respective fields.

The award highlights India’s commitment to promoting sports and motivating athletes to achieve excellence. Winners receive a medallion, a certificate, and a cash prize of ₹25 lakh.

In 2025, the Khel Ratna Award was conferred upon four distinguished athletes: Harmanpreet Singh (Hockey), Manu Bhaker (Shooting), Gukesh D (Chess), and Praveen Kumar (Para-Athletics). The award ceremony will take place on January 17, 2025, at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

Also Read| D Gukesh Net Worth: The Rise of India's Youngest Chess Grandmaster

List of 2024 Khel Ratna Award Winners

Here's the complete list of 2024 Khel Ratna Award Winners, including their names, sports disciplines, and remarkable achievements that earned them India's highest sporting honour.

Source: Press Information Bureau

Check Out| Commonwealth Games: Key Sports Removed from CWG 2026

1. Shri Gukesh D

Source: MyKhel

Shri Gukesh D, an 18-year-old chess prodigy from Chennai, made history by becoming the youngest World Chess Champion in December 2024. He achieved this remarkable feat by defeating the reigning champion, Ding Liren, with a close score of 7.5 to 6.5 in a thrilling match.

Gukesh's journey in chess began at the age of seven, and he became a Grandmaster at just 12 years and 7 months, making him one of the youngest to achieve this title.

His strategic brilliance and resilience have earned him numerous accolades, including being the youngest player to surpass a FIDE rating of 2750. Gukesh's victory not only highlights his exceptional talent but also positions him as a prominent figure in Indian sports, inspiring future generations of chess players.

2. Shri Harmanpreet Singh

Source: Browvopetshop

Shri Harmanpreet Singh is a distinguished Indian hockey player known for his exceptional skills as a drag-flicker and forward. Born on January 6, 1996, in Punjab, he has been a pivotal part of the Indian national team since his debut in 2015.

Harmanpreet rose to prominence during the 2016 Junior World Cup, where he played a crucial role in leading India to victory. His powerful penalty corners and tactical awareness have made him one of the top players in international hockey.

In recent years, he has captained the national team, guiding them to significant achievements, including a bronze medal at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. Harmanpreet's dedication and performance on the field have earned him recognition as one of India's finest hockey talents.

3. Shri Praveen Kumar

Source: Business Standard

Shri Praveen Kumar is an accomplished Indian para-athlete specialising in javelin throw and discus throw events. Born on March 2, 1998, in Uttar Pradesh, he has overcome significant challenges to achieve remarkable success in athletics.

Praveen made headlines at the Tokyo 2020 Paralympics, where he won a silver medal in the men's javelin throw F64 category, showcasing his incredible talent and determination. His journey began with a passion for sports despite facing physical challenges due to his disability.

Praveen's dedication to training and competing has inspired many aspiring athletes in India and around the world. He continues to break barriers in para-athletics while advocating for greater inclusion and support for athletes with disabilities.

For You| World Chess Championship 2024: Schedule, Results, Winner Name, Match Dates and Time

4. Ms. Manu Bhaker

Source: Onmanorama

Ms. Manu Bhaker is a prominent Indian shooter renowned for her exceptional skills in pistol shooting. Born on February 18, 2002, in Haryana, she gained international fame after winning gold medals at various shooting championships, including the ISSF World Cup.

Manu made history at the 2018 Commonwealth Games by becoming the youngest Indian shooter to win gold at just 16 years old. Her precision and composure under pressure have made her a formidable competitor on the global stage.

In addition to her Commonwealth success, Manu has also excelled at World Cup events and Asian Championships, earning multiple medals and accolades. Her achievements have not only elevated her status as an elite athlete but also inspired young shooters across India to pursue their dreams in sports.

➡️ @YASMinistry announces #NationalSportsAwards 2024

➡️ President of India to give away Awards on 17th January 2025

➡️ ‘Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award’ is given for the spectacular and most outstanding performance in the field of sports by a sportsperson over the period of… pic.twitter.com/nRY3nsleOY

— PIB India (@PIB_India) January 2, 2025

What's Next| Asian Champions Trophy Hockey 2024: Winner, Results, and Match Scores