New Delhi, August 18, 2026: Indian football legend I. Arumainayagam, a member of India’s historic 1962 Asian Games gold-medal-winning team, has been honoured with the Arjuna Award (Lifetime) 2025 by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
The prestigious award recognises sportspersons who have made outstanding contributions during their playing careers and continued to support and promote sport after retirement.
Part of India’s Historic 1962 Asian Games Triumph
Arumainayagam was a key member of the Indian football team that won the gold medal at the 1962 Asian Games in Jakarta, one of the most memorable achievements in Indian football history.
Known for his pace and attacking ability as a winger, he made his international debut against Thailand on August 28, 1962, during the Asian Games. He went on to make 18 appearances for India and scored three goals.
He also represented India at the 1964 AFC Asian Cup, where the national team finished as runners-up. His international career further included appearances at the Merdeka Cup in 1966 and 1967, with India finishing third in the 1966 edition.
Successful Domestic and Club Career
Arumainayagam enjoyed an equally impressive domestic career. He represented Madras/Tamil Nadu, Bengal and Railways in the Santosh Trophy between 1958 and 1971. He was part of Bengal’s Santosh Trophy-winning side in 1962.
At club level, he spent eight seasons with Mohun Bagan from 1961 to 1968, scoring 56 goals. During this period, he helped the club win several major honours, including four consecutive Calcutta Football League titles from 1962 to 1965.
His trophy cabinet also included the IFA Shield in 1961 and 1962, three Durand Cup titles from 1963 to 1965, and the Rovers Cup in 1966. He later represented Southern Railway in 1969 and 1970.
In recognition of his contribution to Mohun Bagan and Indian football, Arumainayagam was awarded the Mohun Bagan Ratna in 2014.
AIFF President Congratulates Arumainayagam
All India Football Federation (AIFF) President Kalyan Chaubey congratulated Arumainayagam on receiving the lifetime honour.
Chaubey said the award was a proud moment for Indian football and recognised not only Arumainayagam’s achievements on the field but also his continued contribution to the sport.
The Arjuna Award (Lifetime) adds another major honour to the career of a player who was part of India’s celebrated golden generation and contributed to one of the biggest triumphs in the country’s football history.
