MS Dhoni to Sachin Tendulkar: India's top sportspersons who served in armed forces: PHOTOS
Many Indian athletes have proudly worn the uniform, showing that sports and service often go hand in hand. MS Dhoni, Sachin Tendulkar, and Abhinav Bindra received honorary ranks, while Neeraj Chopra and Deepak Punia serve as Junior Commissioned Officers. Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore and Milkha Singh had full military careers, shaping their discipline and success. Even legends like Kapil Dev and Balbir Singh Sr. were honoured by the Army, proving the deep bond between patriotism and sporting excellence in India.
MS Dhoni
Former India captain MS Dhoni was conferred the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in 2011 and served in Kashmir in 2019, making him one of India's most decorated cricketers on and off the field.
Sachin Tendulkar
Cricketing god Sachin Tendulkar was honoured by the Indian Air Force in 2010 with the rank of Group Captain, marking a historic first for a civilian sportsperson without an aviation background.
Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore
India's Athens 2004 Olympic hero Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore served in the Indian Army, rising to the rank of Colonel after playing a key role during the Kargil War.
Kapil Dev
India's legendary World Cup-winning captain, Kapil Dev, was inducted into the Indian Territorial Army in 2008 with the honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel for his contribution to Indian cricket and national pride.
Abhinav Bindra
India's Olympic gold medallist shooter Abhinav Bindra was honoured with the rank of Lieutenant Colonel by the Territorial Army in 2011, recognising his unparalleled discipline and achievement.
Neeraj Chopra
Two-time Olympic medallist Neeraj Chopra was appointed as a Junior Commissioned Officer in the Rajputana Rifles, blending elite athleticism with a committed military career.
Milkha Singh
Before becoming the "Flying Sikh," Milkha Singh joined the Indian Army in 1951. His military background shaped his discipline, paving the way for historic Asian Games and Olympic performances.
Deepak Punia
Indian Olympic medallist Deepak Punia currently serves as a Junior Commissioned Officer in the Indian Army, representing India on both mats and military grounds.
