However , in November 2013 , cricketer Sachin Tendulkar became the first sports - person to receive the honour and this garnered much criticism for the government .
In July 2013 , the ministry again recommended Dhyan Chand .
In November 2013 , cricketer Sachin Tendulkar became the first sports - person to receive the honour and this garnered much criticism for the government .
In July 2013 , the ministry again recommended Dhyan Chand .