Kerala-based volleyball player, Tom Joseph, has been recommended for the Arjuna award.

The recommendation was made by the Sports Department Secretary to the central Sports Minister, Jitendra Singh. Sports Authority of India Director General, Jiji Thomson had also submitted a report favouring Joseph. The final decision is to be taken after a meeting chaired by the Sports Minister is convened.

It is believed that Joseph was removed from the list at the last minute. Following the protests, the central sports minister said that he would consider Joseph's case with due consideration.