Which Indian footballer was awarded the Padma Shri in 2025 for contribution to sports?

Correct option is A

The correct answer is (a) I.M. Vijayan

Explanation:
• Legendary former Indian football captain I.M. Vijayan was conferred with the Padma Shri in 2025.
• Known as the 'Black Pearl' of Indian football, he has been a three-time AIFF Player of the Year.
• The award recognizes his immense contribution to the sport and his role in mentoring young talent.
• He scored one of the fastest international goals in history (against Bhutan in the 1999 SAF Games).
• Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Technical Committee of the All India Football Federation (AIFF).

Information Booster:
• The Padma Shri is the fourth-highest civilian award in India, announced annually on Republic Day.
• Vijayan previously received the Arjuna Award in 2003.

Additional Knowledge:
Bhaichung Bhutia (Option b)
• He received the Padma Shri earlier, in 2008.
Sunil Chhetri (Option c)
• India's highest goal-scorer received the Padma Shri in 2019 and the Khel Ratna in 2021.
Sandesh Jhingan (Option d)
• A prominent current defender who has received the Arjuna Award (2020) but not the Padma Shri in 2025.

So the correct answer is (a)