New Delhi, 11 June (H.S.): The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) will organise the first-ever Indian Athletic Awards 2026 in New Delhi on June 20. The initiative aims to honour outstanding performers in Indian athletics as well as all key stakeholders who have contributed to the growth and development of the sport.

The awards ceremony will celebrate the achievements of Indian athletics by recognising current and former athletes, coaches, technical officials, mentors, state associations, sponsors, and other contributors who have played an important role in advancing the discipline.

Several leading current and former Indian athletes are expected to attend the event. The ceremony is being viewed as a significant platform for the Indian athletics community and is expected to boost the morale of emerging athletes across the country.

A total of 10 categories of awards will be presented, including Lifetime Achievement, Best Male and Female Athlete, Best Coach, Best Technical Official, Best State Association, and awards for states and organisations that have provided exceptional support to athletics.

AFI President Bahadur Singh Sagoo said in an official statement on Thursday that Indian athletics has made remarkable progress in recent years and that the awards are not only for medal winners, but also for those who work tirelessly behind the scenes to strengthen the sport.

AFI Senior Vice President Anju Bobby George said the ceremony would serve as a platform to honour the dedication and struggles of everyone associated with Indian athletics at every level.

Olympic champion Neeraj Chopra said that such recognitions play an important role in boosting the confidence of young athletes and inspiring the entire sporting ecosystem.

Major award categories to be presented:

-Best Male Athlete of the Year 2025

-Best Female Athlete of the Year 2025

-Best Coach of the Year 2025

Lifetime Achievement Athletics Award (three honours)

-Best State Association of the Year 2025

-Best Technical Official of the Year 2025

-State Providing Maximum Support to Athletics

-Organisation Supporting Athletics

-Athletics Supporting Partner

The AFI hopes the inaugural awards will become an annual celebration recognising excellence and contribution across all levels of Indian athletics.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar