Minister of Sports and Youth Affairs Dr Mansukh Mandaviya has said that on 7th of this month, more than 1 thousand 400 hockey tournaments will be organised in more than 550 districts across the country to celebrate 100 years of Indian hockey. Briefing media in New Delhi today, Dr Mandaviya said, this initiative aims to create widespread awareness about the game, encouraging young players to take up the sport and strengthening the nation’s sporting culture. He added that this will also inspire the youth to connect with hockey’s history and contribute to shaping its future. The Minister further said that the centenary celebration is a tribute to the sport which has been a symbol of national identity and excellence for India. 

 

Apart from this, a 30-minute exhibition match featuring Union Minister’s XI and Hockey India’s Mixed XI will also be played at Major Dhyan Chand Stadium in New Delhi to highlight gender parity, teamwork, and inclusivity. The elite players from both the men’s and women’s national teams will participate in this match. Hockey legends across the generations will also be felicitated during the event to recognize their contribution.