Diksha Dagar was over the moon as she got the official confirmation on being selected for the Arjuna Award. Speaking to RevSportz from Jakarta on Wednesday, Diksha, who is now competing in the Asia Pacific golf event, said this will motivate her further.
“This has been a great year for me and now being selected for the Arjuna Award is recognition and an affirmation I belong to the top,” said Diksha.
Not being selected for the Asian Games in Hangzhou still rankles Diksha, so the latest award comes as a solace. “It still hurts I was not picked for the Asian Games. After that, I have done well on the tour. To get recognition from the Indian government is a great honour,” said an emotional Diksha.
Even though in most sports the season has ended, Diksha is still plying her trade. “It will be very exciting to receive the award from the President of India (Draupadi Murmu) next month. I am waiting for it eagerly,” said Diksha.
Rewinding to the start of her career and how her father Col Narinder Dagar has been rock-solid in support, Diskha thanked the Indian Army. “Coming from an Army background really helped. They enabled me to take up this sport, which is so expensive,” she said.
“I must thank all the people who have believed in me, my family, the Indian Army, well-wishers, the Indian Golf Union and my sponsor Hero Motorcorp. The people who have believed in me, this award is also for them,” added Diksha.
Asked on the emotions behind the award, the ace golfer was nostalgic. “To be winning the Arjuna Award is a massive recognition for me and my family. It is something to celebrate, a recognition for the efforts which have gone in. I am sure in 2024, this award will fire me up to do well in an important year. Yes, the Paris Olympics is also very important for me as well,” stressed Diksha.
Col Dagar said the news was “unbelievable.” “Coming from an Army background, a national award is great recognition for Diksha and all of us. There are so many people who have been part of this journey. It has not been easy at all but this award is true recognition for my daughter’s efforts,” added the emotional father.