'They have done the sport proud by their achievements. I thank the government and Sports Minister M.S. Gill for having taken the bold step of giving recognition to the deserving sportspersons.'

IBF secretary general P.K. Muralidharan Raja said it will not only boost their morale for their earlier achievements but will also spur them to reach greater heights in International Championships.

'Vijender will get an opportunity to break the jinx that India has not won a single medal at the World Boxing Championships in September. Similarly Marykom may get an opportunity to bring India its first Olympics medal if the sport gets introduced at London Olympic Games 2012.'