In a prestigious ceremony held on the sidelines of the ongoing Army Sports Conclave, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to three legendary sportspersons in recognition of their extraordinary contributions to Indian sports and the nation. The event celebrated the remarkable achievements of athletes who have brought immense pride to India through their dedication, discipline, and excellence.
Colonel Balbir Singh Kular (Retd): A Stalwart of Indian Hockey
Colonel Balbir Singh Kular (Retd) has been a towering figure in Indian hockey. A member of the 1966 Asian Games gold medal-winning team and the 1968 Mexico Olympics bronze medal-winning team, he has left an indelible mark on the sport. A recipient of the Arjuna Award, Colonel Kular captained India at the 1971 Hockey World Cup in Lahore and later contributed to the game as a player, coach, manager, and selector, mentoring countless young players and shaping generations of hockey talent in India.
Subedar Murlikant Petkar (Retd): India’s First Paralympic Gold Medallist
The story of Subedar Murlikant Petkar (Retd) is one of courage, resilience, and inspiration. A soldier who sustained injuries during the 1965 Indo-Pak War, Petkar overcame adversity to make history as India’s first Paralympic Gold Medallist. He triumphed in the 50m Freestyle Swimming event at the 1972 Heidelberg Paralympics, setting a world record of 37.33 seconds. His remarkable achievements have inspired generations of para-athletes across the nation and continue to serve as a symbol of determination and strength.
Sub Maj (Hony Capt) Vijay Kumar: Olympic Marksman and Mentor
Sub Maj (Hony Capt) Vijay Kumar brought glory to India through his excellence in shooting. A world-class marksman, he earned the Silver Medal in the 25m Rapid Fire Pistol event at the 2012 London Olympics. For his outstanding contributions to Indian sport, he has been honoured with the Padma Shri and the Arjuna Award. Over the years, he has won multiple gold medals in international competitions. His discipline, focus, and mentorship continue to inspire the next generation of athletes within the Armed Forces and beyond.
The honouring of these three sporting icons at the Army Sports Conclave stands as a testament to the Indian Army’s commitment to promoting sportsmanship and excellence. Their legacies not only highlight the synergy between military service and athletic achievement but also serve as enduring inspiration for aspiring sportspersons across India.