New Delhi: The Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna samman, the country's highest sports award, has been renamed after Major Dhyan Chand, popularly known as the 'Magician of Hockey'. PM Narendra Modi himself has announced this after which the honor will now be conferred as 'Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award'. PM Modi has also tweeted in this regard.

PM Modi wrote in a tweet, "Amidst the moments that have made the country proud, many countrymen have also urged that the name of Khel Ratna Award be dedicated to Major Dhyan Chand Ji. In view of the sentiments of the people, its name is now being awarded the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award. Jai Hind!'' Union Home Minister Amit Shah tweeted, 'It is a true tribute to the country's highest sports honor, 'Khel Ratna Award' after major Dhyan Chand ji, the greatest player in the country. It is a proud decision for everyone in the sports world. I congratulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji on behalf of all the countrymen for this.'

CM Yogi has also welcomed the decision of the Central government.  Cm Yogi tweeted, "The naming of Khel Ratna award after Uttar Pradesh-born hockey magician Major Dhyan Chand Ji is an honor for innumerable sports lovers and the entire sports world. Thank you from the bottom of my heart on behalf of Uttar Pradesh, respected Prime Minister!''

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