New Delhi: The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will host the first-ever Indian Athletic Awards on June 20 in New Delhi, marking a new initiative to celebrate excellence and contributions across the Indian athletics ecosystem.
The awards have been conceived as a platform to recognise not only current and former athletes but also coaches, technical officials, mentors, state associations, sponsors and other stakeholders who have played a crucial role in the growth of Indian athletics and its achievements on the global stage.
The inaugural ceremony is expected to bring together many of India’s leading track and field stars, both past and present, making it one of the most significant gatherings of the athletics community in the country.
Awards will be presented across 10 categories, including Lifetime Achievement Awards, Best Athlete (Male and Female), Best Coach, Best Technical Official, Best State Association and Best State Supporting Athletics. The initiative aims to acknowledge outstanding performances and sustained contributions that have helped elevate India’s profile in international athletics.
Olympic and World Championships medallist Neeraj Chopra welcomed the initiative, saying such recognition plays a key role in motivating athletes and strengthening the country’s sporting culture.
“To boost the morale and confidence of young Indian athletes, initiatives like the Indian Athletic Awards are extremely important,” Chopra said.
He added that celebrating the efforts of athletes, coaches and support staff helps inspire the next generation to aim higher and perform better on the world stage.
The launch of the awards comes at a time when Indian athletics is enjoying unprecedented success, with athletes delivering strong performances at global competitions and raising expectations ahead of future international events.
AFI officials believe the awards will become an annual platform to honour excellence, encourage emerging talent and recognise the collective efforts that contribute to India’s growing stature in world athletics. The ceremony is expected to highlight the achievements of individuals and organisations that have helped shape the country’s athletics success story.
