What Did Hockey India Unveil at the 15th Congress in Mahabalipuram?

Mahabalipuram, July 27 (NationPress) - Hockey India successfully held its 15th Congress in the historic town of Mahabalipuram on Sunday. This event marks a significant milestone, celebrating a century of Indian hockey's illustrious journey. The Congress introduced several key initiatives, including a nationwide Hockey Festival set for November 7, alongside increased financial support aimed at state and national-level hockey development.

The legacy of Indian hockey began in 1925 with the establishment of its first national governing body. To honor this important anniversary, Hockey India plans to host an unprecedented nationwide celebration on November 7. This spectacular event will feature 1,000 simultaneous matches - one men's and one women's match in every district across the nation, engaging over 36,000 players (18,000 men and 18,000 women).

This grand initiative will unite players from all corners of the country, showcasing not only India's unity and diversity but also the lasting enthusiasm that hockey inspires.

In a progressive move to enhance the Indian hockey ecosystem, Hockey India announced significant increases in financial grants to bolster the organization of national and grassroots-level events:

• Rs 70 lakh each for hosting the Senior Men’s and Senior Women’s National Championships.
• Rs 30 lakh each for Junior Men, Junior Women, Sub-Junior Men, and Sub-Junior Women National Championships.
• Rs 25 lakh per state to assist with district and state-level competitions.

These increased grants aim to fortify infrastructure, elevate event quality, and ensure broader participation by alleviating financial constraints at the grassroots level. The support is anticipated to benefit thousands of aspiring players, coaches, and grassroots officials who are vital to the future of Indian hockey.

Dilip Tirkey, President of Hockey India, stated, “As we mark 100 years of Indian hockey, we not only celebrate our golden legacy but also establish a robust foundation for the future. This nationwide festival is a tribute to every player, coach, and fan who has propelled Indian hockey forward. The financial support we are announcing directly invests in the dreams of the next generation, ensuring that no talent is overlooked due to a lack of resources.”

Bhola Nath Singh, Secretary General of Hockey India, added, “This centenary celebration is not merely symbolic; it is action-oriented. The increased grants reflect our conviction that real growth occurs at the grassroots level and that equal opportunity, gender parity, and quality infrastructure are essential pillars for hockey's resurgence. We appreciate all our state units and districts for their dedication, and we eagerly anticipate a grand and inclusive celebration on November 7.”