D Gukesh's inclusion in the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna awardees for 2024 has raised questions due to his achievement falling outside the awards cycle. Despite not self-applying or being recommended by the AICF,

D Gukesh was among the four athletes along with Manu Bhaker, Harmanpreet Singh and Praveen Kumar to be honoured with the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award.

Indian Grandmaster D Gukesh made history on December 12 by becoming the youngest-ever world chess champion at 18, defeating reigning title-holder Ding Liren in a dramatic final game. He had become the challenger for the world title after winning the Candidates Tournament earlier in 2023 when he was 17.

Harmanpreet Singh's journey from 2023 World Cup disappointment to becoming one of world's top drag-flickers and a Khel Ratna awardee is remarkable. Overcoming setbacks with strong family and team support,

India's 4 athletes will get Khel Ratna, 32 athletes will be conferred with the Arjuna Award, two for Arjuna Awards (Lifetime), three coaches will get the Dronacharya Award for Outstanding Coaches two will get the Lifetime Category award.

D Gukesh's inclusion in the 2024 Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna awardees was a surprise, as his historic World Chess Championship win in December 2024 occurred outside the award's four-year cycle. Critics argue the government should have waited until next year,

Chess world champion D Gukesh on Thursday expressed gratitude for being awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna by the Indian government. Recently crowned the youngest world chess champion, Gukesh promised to continue striving for excellence.