Top Indian Sports Stars Transitioning to Government Roles: Athletes Who Serve Beyond the Field
Sarabjot Singh, the 22-year-old Olympic bronze medallist in shooting, recently turned down a prestigious government job offered in recognition of his achievements at the Paris Olympics. Despite the honor, Singh chose to remain focused on his athletic career. Here’s a look at other Indian sports stars who have transitioned from their athletic achievements to prominent government roles:
Sarabjot Singh, the 22-year-old Olympic bronze medalist in shooting, recently declined a prestigious government job offered in recognition of his achievements at the Paris Olympics. Singh, who won the bronze medal in the 10m Air Pistol Mixed Team event alongside Manu Bhaker, received the offer during a meeting with Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini in Chandigarh. Despite the honor, Singh chose to dedicate his efforts to further advancing his athletic career. Many celebrated Indian athletes have transitioned from their sports careers to serve in various government roles, utilizing their leadership skills and discipline to contribute to public service. Here’s a detailed look at some of these notable figures who continue to make an impact in government positions. (Image: Reuters)
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Neeraj Chopra | Neeraj Chopra, the renowned javelin thrower and Olympic gold medalist, serves as a Subedar in the Indian Army. Inducted in 2016, he earned his promotion to Subedar in 2018 after his outstanding performances at the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. His role in the Army reflects his dedication to national service, complementing his illustrious athletic career. (Image: Reuters)
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P.T. Usha | P.T. Usha, one of India's most celebrated track and field athletes, currently serves as a member of the Rajya Sabha. Her involvement in legislative matters highlights her commitment to advancing sports development and shaping policy. In December 2022, she was appointed as one of the vice-chairpersons of the Rajya Sabha, becoming the first nominated MP to be part of the Vice Chairperson panel. Additionally, she was elected as the President of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) in December 2022, making history as the first woman to hold this prestigious position. (Image: AFP)
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Mahendra Singh Dhoni | Former Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni holds an honorary rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the Parachute Regiment of the Indian Territorial Army. This honorary title, awarded in 2011, underscores his ongoing commitment to national service and exemplifies his leadership beyond the cricket field. (Image: AFP)
KL Rahul | Cricketer KL Rahul serves as an Assistant Manager at the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), a role he secured through the sports quota. His position at the RBI allows him to merge his athletic discipline with financial governance, contributing to the organization’s operations and management.(Image: Reuters)
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Yuzvendra Chahal | Indian cricketer Yuzvendra Chahal has been appointed as an Income Tax Officer in Haryana. His appointment reflects how the focus and precision required in sports translate into his role in tax administration, where he applies the same dedication and discipline. (Image: Reuters)
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Kapil Dev | Legendary cricketer Kapil Dev serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Indian Army. His role in the Army continues his legacy of service, reflecting his commitment to national duty after a celebrated cricketing career. (Image: Reuters)
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Sachin Tendulkar | Cricketing icon Sachin Tendulkar holds the rank of Group Captain in the Indian Air Force. This prestigious role demonstrates his dedication to serving the nation, complementing his extraordinary contributions to cricket.(Image: Reuters)
Harbhajan Singh | Former cricketer Harbhajan Singh is a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Punjab. His role in policing is marked by the same dedication and discipline that characterized his cricket career, highlighting his commitment to public service. (Image: Facebook/Harbhajan Singh)
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Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore | Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, an Olympic medalist in shooting and retired Indian Army officer, is currently serving as a cabinet minister in the Government of Rajasthan. Since December 2023, he has been contributing to the Industry & Commerce, Youth Affairs & Sports Department, bringing his experience as a former Olympian and military officer to his political role. (Image: AFP)
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Joginder Sharma | Former cricketer Joginder Sharma is a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in Haryana. Known for his leadership skills on the cricket field, Sharma now contributes to law enforcement, leveraging his sports discipline in his policing duties. He made significant contributions to the Indian cricket team and played for the Chennai Super Kings from 2008 to 2012. (Image: Reuters)
