India’s Top Sports Award: Khel Ratna Explained
India’s highest sports award is the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, started in 1991. Chess player Viswanathan Anand was the first winner. Earlier called the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna, it was later renamed. Winners receive ₹25 lakh. For 2024–25, Manu Bhaker, Gukesh, Harmanpreet, and Praveen Kumar have been selected.