Sports

 The milestone event will commemorate a century of India’s rich hockey heritage, honouring the legends who brought the nation glory and celebrating the sport’s enduring spirit that continues to inspire millions. The celebrations in New Delhi will begin at 8:30 AM, featuring a series of special events that capture the essence of Indian hockey’s glorious journey.

“As India celebrates 100 years of hockey, we honour a century of pride, perseverance, and national glory. This milestone is an occasion to remember our heroes who brought honour to the country and to draw inspiration from their journey as we look ahead. Hockey is more than just a sport for India — it is part of our identity and collective spirit. The celebrations across more than 550 districts will not only highlight our legacy but also take the story of Indian hockey to every corner of the nation, inspiring young boys and girls to pick up the stick and play with passion,” said Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya.

A 30-minute exhibition match featuring the Union Minister’s XI and Hockey

India’s Mixed XI (Men & Women) will highlight gender parity, teamwork, and inclusivity, with elite players from both the men’s and women’s national teams participating. This will be followed by the felicitation of hockey legends across generations, recognising their contribution to India’s status as the world’s most successful hockey nation, with eight Olympic gold medals and 13 Olympic podium finishes.

Hockey is one of the priority sports in the government’s scheme of things. Men and women’s hockey feature among the government’s premier schemes – Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and Target Asian Games Group (TAGG). Under these schemes, national teams receive funding for training, competitions, exposure trips and allowances among other facilities in every Olympic cycle. To spread hockey among women, the Sports Ministry organises ASMITA hockey league across the country at the junior and sub-junior levels.

“The government remains deeply committed to strengthening India’s sporting ecosystem through greater investment, modern infrastructure, and institutional reforms. Our vision is clear — to make India one of the top sporting nations in the world by 2036 and to consistently perform at the highest levels in every discipline. With continued collaboration between the Ministry, the Sports Authority of India, and federations like Hockey India, we will continue to nurture young talent, expand access to sport, and ensure that India’s tricolour flies high on every international stage,” the sports minister added.