How many recipients of the Arjuna Award were there in the inaugural edition of Arjuna Award in 1961?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: D
Explanation
The correct answer is option 4 i.e. 20.
- The Arjuna Award was established in 1961 by the Government of India to honor remarkable achievements in the field of sports.
- In its first year, 20 athletes from various disciplines received this prestigious recognition.
- The award is named after Arjuna, the legendary archer from the Mahabharata, symbolizing skill, dedication, and courage in sports.
- Early recipients represented a wide range of sports, highlighting the diverse sporting talent across the country.
- While it initially recognized individual excellence, the scope of the award has since expanded to include team sports and contributions by coaches.
- Awardees receive a bronze statuette of Arjuna, along with a certificate and a monetary prize.
- Today, the Arjuna Award stands as one of India’s highest honors for athletes, celebrating commitment, performance, and contribution to Indian sports.