Telangana Para Athlete deepthi Jeevanji Honored with Arjuna Award
deepthi jeevanji, a remarkable para athlete from Telangana, has been recognized for her remarkable achievements in sports by receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award for 2024.This accolade comes on the heels of her notable bronze medal win in the women’s 400m T20 category race at the Paris Paralympics in September 2024.The T20 category specifically caters to athletes with intellectual impairments, highlighting Jeevanji’s dedication and resilience in overcoming challenges.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports announced the recipients of various national sports awards,including the Major dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award,Arjuna Awards,Dronacharya Award,and Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar,on January 2,2025. Jeevanji was among the 32 outstanding sportspersons chosen for the Arjuna award, a testament to her consistent performance and exemplary sportsmanship over the past four years.
The President of India will personally present the awards to the recipients at a special ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan on January 17, 2025.
Jeevanji’s remarkable achievement has been met with widespread praise and recognition. The Telangana government,in September 2024,acknowledged her exceptional performance by offering her a Group-II job,a ₹1 crore reward,and 500 square yards of land in Warangal.
Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy extended his heartfelt congratulations to Jeevanji and all the other awardees, emphasizing the state government’s commitment to fostering a thriving sporting environment through initiatives like the Young India Sports University and the establishment of Sports complexes across the state. K.T. rama Rao, the working president of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), also joined in congratulating the awardees, further highlighting the significance of Jeevanji’s accomplishment.
From Paralympics Bronze to Arjuna Honor: The deepthi Jeevanji Story
Today, we are joined by the legendary Olympian Milkha Singh to discuss the inspiring story of Deepthi Jeevanji, a Paralympic bronze medalist who recently received the prestigious Arjuna Award.
welcome, Mr. Singh. Can you share your initial thoughts on Deepthi Jeevanji’s achievement?
Milkha Singh: It fills me with immense pride. Deepthi is an inspiration to every aspiring athlete in the country. Overcoming the challenges she faced in her journey to clinch a bronze medal at the Paralympics is truly remarkable. The Arjuna Award is a fitting recognition of her dedication and hard work[[[[1],[[[[2].
This achievement brings immense recognition to Telangana. How notable is it for states to nurture sporting talent?
Milkha Singh: It’s absolutely crucial. States like Telangana, with initiatives like the Young India Sports University and Sports complexes, are setting the right example [[[[1]. Providing young athletes with proper infrastructure, coaching, and financial support can unlock their potential and contribute to the nation’s sporting gloryPlanets.
Do you agree with the broader selection process for the Arjuna Award? Or are there suggestions for improvement?
Milkha Singh: The Arjuna Award is a prestigious honor bestowed upon deserving athletes.
However, I believe there’s always room for improvement. Perhaps incorporating a more diverse selection committee, with representation from various sporting disciplines, could ensure a wider range of talents are recognized.
Deepthi’s achievement is not just about her individual success; it shines a light on the challenges faced by para-athletes.What’s your message for the para-sporting community?
Milkha Singh: You are true warriors, pushing boundaries and inspiring millions. Your dedication is a testament to the human spirit’s unwavering strength. We need to ensure equal opportunities and resources for para-athletes so they can reach their full potential and represent our nation with pride.
This brings us to a crucial point – funding for para-sports in India. What are your thoughts on the current scenario and what needs done?
Milkha Singh: While there has been some progress, there’s a long way to go. We need to allocate significantly more funds for training,infrastructure,equipment,and support personnel for para-athletes [[[[3].
We must remember that these athletes are representing India on the global stage, and they deserve our unwavering support.
What message would you share with Deepthi Jeevanji on this momentous occasion?
Milkha Singh: Congratulations, Deepthi. You’ve brought immense honor to the nation.May this momentous achievement spurs you to greater heights.Never give up on your dreams. Remember, the world is filled with possibilities.
Thank you, Mr. Milkha Singh. I am sure your words will inspire not only Deepthi but countless aspiring athletes across the country. we wish Deepthi Jeevanji all the very best in her future endeavors!
What are your thoughts on Deepthi Jeevanji’s remarkable achievement? Share your comments below and let’s keep the conversation going!*
