Marking a century of hockey excellence, the event aims to honour India’s hockey legends and inspire future generations. More than 1,400 hockey matches will be played nationwide, engaging over 36,000 players from grassroots levels. Each district will host one men’s and one women’s match to promote equality and inclusion in sports.
Dr Mandaviya emphasized that hockey represents India’s collective spirit and resilience. “This milestone is not just a celebration of our past but a message to the youth. Through hockey, we celebrate discipline, teamwork, and the spirit of Bharat,” he said. The minister added that the government is working toward making India one of the world’s top sporting nations by 2036.
Exhibition Match Promotes Inclusivity and Gender Equality
The highlight of the event will be a 30-minute mixed exhibition match between the Union Minister’s XI and Hockey India’s Mixed XI, featuring both men and women national players. The match aims to showcase gender equality, inclusivity, and teamwork. It will be followed by a felicitation ceremony honouring hockey legends from across generations who have contributed to India’s global dominance in the sport.
Government’s Continued Support for Indian Hockey
Under schemes such as Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and Target Asian Games Group (TAGG), both men’s and women’s teams receive comprehensive support — from international exposure to training and allowances. The ASMITA Hockey League is also being promoted to encourage women’s participation at the junior and sub-junior levels.
Dr Mandaviya reaffirmed the government’s commitment to investing in sports infrastructure, performance analysis, and youth engagement to ensure India’s sustained success at international tournaments.
Honouring Legacy and Looking Ahead
As part of the celebrations, the Ministry will release a commemorative volume titled “100 Years of Indian Hockey”, chronicling the sport’s journey from the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics to the present era. The publication will serve as a historical tribute to the sport’s heroes and milestones.
Hockey India President Dr Dilip Tirkey called the occasion “a deeply emotional and proud moment,” emphasizing the federation’s commitment to developing both men’s and women’s hockey equally. He added that grassroots investment and professional leagues are strengthening India’s position in world hockey.
Nationwide Celebration of Unity and Legacy
At the grassroots level, over 550 districts will witness hockey matches to bring the sport closer to rural and urban communities alike. A large-scale photo exhibition at the Major Dhyan Chand Stadium will display rare archival photographs, Olympic memorabilia, and iconic moments from India’s hockey history.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh highlighted the federation’s focus on transparency and systemic reform, including investment in analytics, coaching, and infrastructure. He expressed gratitude to the Sports Authority of India for its continued support in nurturing world-class players.
The centenary celebration, with its scale and inclusivity, promises to reignite India’s passion for its national sport and inspire the next generation of hockey champions.