Hansi: International boxer Narendra Berwal from the village of Sorkhi in Hansi region of Haryana received the prestigious Arjuna Award 2025 from President Droupadi Murmu at a ceremony at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday.
This achievement has put his home village, Hansi region and state of Haryana in good spirits. Berwal has created recognition for the country through his performances in national and international competitions.
After starting out from a rural background, Berwal has worked extremely hard to become an international boxer whilst also serving in the Indian Army. He will be proud to receive this award which celebrates Haryana’s sports culture and it’s rising talents from rural background.
Started Boxing in 2009
Berwal began boxing in 2009 and was trained by coach Devraj at the Bhiwani Boxing Academy.
He joined the Indian Army in 2013 but continued to train and competed in numerous national and international events. He had medals at various levels.
International Medals
He started to make a name for himself in international competition in 2012 with a Silver Medal at the Youth World Championships in Philippines. He was followed up with a Silver Medal at the Youth Asian Championships in 2013.
In 2015 he won a Silver Medal at the Military World Games. Over the years he has gained many medals including a Bronze Medal at the Asian Games 2023, a Gold at the European Cup and Gold at the National Games 2025.
In 2026 he won a Silver Medal at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. He also won a Bronze Medal at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan.
Berwal won against Atthapong Sengtep of Thailand in the Quarter Finals during the Asian Games to reach the medal rounds. He then lost to Aibek Oralbay of Kazakhstan who is a world champion in the Semi Final which meant he received a Bronze Medal.
Inspiration to Rural Youth
Berwal started training in a village in Haryana and has now represented the country in some of the biggest international events. This has inspired many young athletes especially those who come from a rural background.
His success shows how much effort he has put into his sport. Winning the Arjuna Award has been a key milestone in his career and has made him proud for his village of Sorkhi, Hansi region and Haryana.