Sania won her career's first ever women's doubles Grand Slam title with Swiss partner Martina Hingis in June. She also became world number one before winning the Grass Court major.
Sports Secretary Ajit Sharan said the Sports Minister Sarbanada Sonowal has indeed recommended to the tennis exponent for the highest honour given for achievement in sports.
"We had got a late recommendation from AITA but the Minister accepted that and recommended the same to the Awards Committee," Sharan told said.
Sania, who has won three mixed doubles Grand Slams in her career, is reportedly competing with Squash player Deepika Pallikal and discus thrower Vikas Gowda for the prestigious award.