Boxer Amit Panghal who became the first Indian Boxer to win a silver medal at the recently held World Championship told the media that he does not care for personal honours but pleaded for a Dronacharya award for his formative coach Anil Dhankar. Amit was not considered for the Arjuna Award following a failed dope test in 2012. “I don’t really care for awards for myself but I would be grateful if Anil Dhankar, my formative coach is considered for Dronacharya. He has shaped me in my early years and had it not been for him, I would not be the boxer that I am today," Panghal said.

Amit Panghal roots for an award for his coach

"I began boxing in 2008 and Dhankar sir has been my rock ever since. Even now, it is Dhankar sir that I go to when I need guidance on any matter. An award for him would be an award for me too. In fact, it will make me happier," he further added. Anil Dhankar who has not been associated with any of the national teams was a national medallist during his time as a boxer.

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BFI's efforts for Amit Panghal

The BFI (Boxing Federation of India) has insisted that it will keep nominating Amit Panghal’s name for the award until he wins the Award. Talking about this, Panghal said, “The BFI insists it will keep nominating me, I am thankful for this consideration. But all I want to do is win medals for India and I am glad I am able to do that wherever I compete, as long as I am winning medals for the country, personal awards do not matter to me."

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Amit Panghal wins Gold 

In February 2018, Amit Panghal won the gold medal at the Strandzha Cup in Sofia. He also won the silver medal at 2018 Commonwealth Games in the light flyweight category. In April 2019 he won the Gold Medal at Asian Boxing Championship 2019 at Bangkok Defeated by Korean boxer Kim In-kyu (Bronze Medalist world boxing championship 2017).

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(Inputs from PTI)