Asian and Commonwealth Games gold medallist wrestler Bajrang Punia was on Friday nominated for India’s highest sporting honour – the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award.
His name was finalised by a 12-member selection committee on the opening day of a two-day meeting. The panel comprises of the likes of Bhaichung Bhutia and MC Mary Kom among others.
“Bajrang has been nominated for the Khel Ratna award. His name was a unanimous choice,” an official was quoted as saying by PTI.
The official also said that the 12-member panel may add another athlete for the top honour on Saturday besides finalising the names for the Arjuna and Dronacharya awards.
“I had the achievements to deserve this award. I have always said that awards should go to the most deserving ones,” Punia said.
Punia had last year won the gold medal in the 65-kg freestyle event at the Asian Games held in Jakarta. He had also won the gold medal in the same category at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games.
He is also a two-time medallist at the world championships and a strong medal hope for India at next year’s Tokyo Olympics.
Buy an annual Scroll Membership to support independent journalism and get special benefits.
Our journalism is for everyone. But you can get special privileges by buying an annual Scroll Membership. Sign up today!