The Arjuna Award, instituted in 1961 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, is India’s second-highest sporting honor. It recognizes athletes who have demonstrated consistent, outstanding performance at the national and international levels over a period of four years. 

Named after Arjuna, the legendary archer from the Mahabharata, the award symbolizes focus, dedication, discipline, and unwavering commitment—qualities expected of every recipient. 

It includes a bronze statuette of Arjuna, a certificate, a ceremonial dress, and a cash prize of ₹15 lakh 

The Arjuna Award honors athletes who: 

• Deliver consistent high-level performance in recognized sports 

• Display exemplary leadership, sportsmanship, and discipline 

• Contribute significantly to India’s sporting achievements 

It is regarded as the highest honor after the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award 

Nominations may be submitted by: 

• National Sports Federations (NSFs) 

• Indian Olympic Association (IOA) 

• Sports Authority of India (SAI) 

• Sports Promotion and Control Boards 

• State and Union Territory Governments 

• Previous year’s awardees 

All nominations are recorded, acknowledged, and screened to verify eligibility and ensure a clean disciplinary record. The final awardees are selected by a committee constituted by the Government of India. 

Arjuna (Lifetime) Award — Introduced in 2024 

There is also a Arjuna (Lifetime) Awards, instituted in 2024, are given to sportspersons to honour and motivate them for their contribution to sports by their performance and continue to contribute to promotion of sports even after their retirement from active sporting career.  

Awardees receive a statuette, certificate, ceremonial dress and a cash prize of ₹15 lakh. List of Awardees are attached. 

Please visit following URL and contact local department of sports for more information 

Reference - Arjuna Award | Indian Sports, History, Eligibility, Nomination, & Facts | Britannica 

ARJUNA AWARD | Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports | Government of India 

ARJUNA AWARD (LIFETIME) AWARD | Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports | Government of India 

If you have latest status, additional information, experience or suggestions for this scheme then please add comments below with more information. 

Disclaimer – The information provided here is sourced from official government websites and is intended for general reference only. We will continue to consult relevant authorities and qualified professionals and update this page as new information becomes available.