Sports Current Affairs

The National Sports Awards 2026 have been announced by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports to honour outstanding contributions and achievements in Indian sports. The awards recognise athletes, coaches and institutions for excellence and contribution to sports development.

Major National Sports Awards

Award Purpose

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award Highest sporting honour; recognises the most spectacular and outstanding performance by a sportsperson

Arjuna Award Outstanding performance in sports over a sustained period

Dronacharya Award Excellence in coaching; recognises outstanding coaches

Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar Recognises organisations/entities promoting sports

Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy Best overall performance by a university in inter-university sports

Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna:

It is the highest sporting honour of India.

Earlier known as the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award.

Renamed in 2021 after hockey legend Major Dhyan Chand.

Award carries a medal, certificate and cash prize.

Arjuna Award :

It is given to sportspersons who demonstrate:

Outstanding performance, Consistent excellence over a sustained period, Sportsmanship and discipline.

Dronacharya Award :

Named after Dronacharya, the legendary teacher in the Mahabharata.

Awards Given By:

The awards are administered by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports and are traditionally presented by the President of India at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Source : PIB