Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award

Key facts

Benefit	₹25,00,000 (one-time cash prize)
Who	Sportspersons with outstanding performance
How paid	Awarded at a presentation ceremony
Implemented by	Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
Official portal	sportsauthorityofindia.nic.in
Application window	Annual window — confirm dates on the official portal

Benefits

Awardees receive a cash prize of ₹2,500,000, a medallion, and a certificate of honor, all exempt from taxes.

Who can apply

For: sportsperson
not penalized for doping
not income tax payer

Eligible candidates include sportspersons who have demonstrated exceptional performance in international competitions over the past four years. Individuals penalized for doping or those who are income tax payers are excluded from eligibility.

Who is not eligible

Income tax payers
Sportspersons penalized for doping

How to apply

Nominations for the award are submitted by recognized sports federations and other authorized bodies.

Check eligibility criteria for the award.
Contact a recognized National Sports Federation or relevant authority for nomination.
Prepare required documents including proof of achievements and personal identification.
Submit the nomination before the deadline set by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
Await the announcement of awardees by the government.

Apply on the official website ↗

Documents required

Date of Birth Proof
User Photograph
Upload user signature
Vigilance Certificate
Certificates of International Achievement details
Signed Undertaking

Common problems and how to fix them

Problem	What to do
Application rejected	Ensure all eligibility criteria are met and that no doping violations are present.
Payment not received	Contact the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports for clarification on the award disbursement process.

Frequently asked questions

Who can nominate candidates for the award?

Nominations can be made by recognized National Sports Federations, the Indian Olympic Association, and state governments.

What documents are required for the nomination?

Required documents include proof of date of birth, a user photograph, a signature, a vigilance certificate, and details of international achievements.

Can the award be given posthumously?

Yes, the award may be conferred posthumously if circumstances warrant it.

Is there a limit on how many times a person can receive the award?

No individual can receive the award more than once, except in exceptional circumstances.

What happens if a recipient is found guilty of doping?

The award may be canceled, and the recipient must return the plaque and certificate.

How is the award presented?

The award is presented at a designated ceremony, and only the awardees or their representatives can collect the award.

Always confirm the latest details on the official portal before applying.