Paralympic gold medallist Harvinder Singh has become the first Indian para archer to be awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian honour. The recognition highlights his achievements and contributions to Indian sports, especially in the field of para archery.
Award Ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Harvinder received the Padma Shri from President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Delhi. Reflecting on the moment, he expressed pride and gratitude for the national recognition of his hard work and dedication over the years.
A Career of Perseverance and Excellence
Harvinder Singh, a two-time Paralympic medallist and gold medallist at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, called the honour a major milestone in his career. He acknowledged that receiving the award at a relatively young age made it even more special.
Family and Coaches Present at the Ceremony
Harvinder shared the special moment with his father Sardar Paramjeet Singh, wife Manpreet Kaur, and coaches Jiwanjot Singh Teja and Gaurav Sharma. He noted that having them present added emotional value to the recognition, especially after not having them around during the Arjuna Award ceremony in 2021.
Motivated to Achieve More
The Padma Shri award has further strengthened Harvinder’s resolve to continue representing India and bring home more medals. He said the award motivates him to return to Rashtrapati Bhavan in the future with more achievements.
National Honour as a Personal Milestone
For Harvinder, the recognition is not just an individual achievement but a validation of the years of discipline and effort he has dedicated to para sports. It symbolizes not only personal pride but also national appreciation of para-athletic excellence.
