New Delhi | August 18, 2026: Indian football veteran I. Arumainayagam, who was part of India’s historic gold medal-winning team at the 1962 Asian Games, has been awarded the Arjuna Award (Lifetime) 2025 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
The honour recognises athletes who have made notable contributions during their sporting careers and continued to promote and support their respective sports after retirement.
A Member of India’s Golden Football Generation
Arumainayagam played an important role during one of the most successful periods in Indian football. He was part of the national team that defeated South Korea in the final to win the football gold medal at the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta.
The former winger made his international debut against Thailand on August 28, 1962. He went on to play 18 matches for India and scored three goals.
His international career also included India’s campaign at the 1964 AFC Asian Cup, where the team finished runners-up. He later represented the country at the Merdeka Cup in 1966 and 1967, with India securing third place in the 1966 tournament.
Impressive Career With Mohun Bagan
Arumainayagam also enjoyed a successful club career, particularly during his eight-year spell with Mohun Bagan between 1961 and 1968.
He scored 56 goals for the Kolkata-based club and was part of teams that won several major domestic trophies. His achievements included four Calcutta Football League titles from 1962 to 1965, two IFA Shield trophies, three Durand Cup victories and a Rovers Cup title.
He subsequently played for Southern Railway in 1969 and 1970.
His contribution to the club was recognised in 2014 when he received the prestigious Mohun Bagan Ratna.
AIFF Welcomes the Recognition
AIFF President Kalyan Chaubey congratulated Arumainayagam, describing the award as an important recognition for Indian football.
Chaubey highlighted his contribution to the historic 1962 Asian Games triumph and said the lifetime award acknowledges both his achievements as a player and his continued association with Indian football.
The Lifetime Arjuna Award adds another landmark achievement to the career of Arumainayagam, whose name remains closely associated with one of the greatest chapters in Indian football history.
