- Indian Hockey completes 100 years (1925–2025).
- Centenary celebrations begin on November 7 in New Delhi.
- Events organised in collaboration with Hockey India.
- Over 1,400 matches to be held simultaneously nationwide.
- More than 550 districts and 36,000 players involved.
- 30-minute mixed-gender exhibition match scheduled.
- Hockey India’s commemorative volume to be released.
- Government aims to make India a top sporting nation by 2036.
- Hockey India focuses on grassroots and women’s hockey.
- Major Dhyan Chand Stadium to host a large photo exhibition.
The nation is gearing up for a historic milestone as Indian Hockey completes 100 years, dating back to its formal inception in 1925. The government, in collaboration with Hockey India, will launch a grand celebration on November 7 at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, with parallel events held in more than 550 districts across the country.
Honouring a Glorious Legacy
The centenary event will pay tribute to the sport’s rich heritage and the legends who brought global fame to Indian hockey. Beginning at 8:30 AM in the capital, the celebration will feature a mixed-gender exhibition match played for 30 minutes. The game, involving top players from India’s national men’s and women’s teams, will focus on inclusivity and teamwork.
Engaging the Grassroots Across India
In an unprecedented move, over 1,400 hockey matches will take place at the same time in districts nationwide, bringing together more than 36,000 young athletes. Each district will host both a men’s and a women’s match, reinforcing a message of gender equality in sport. The initiative aims to infuse festive spirit across rural and urban India, inspiring sportspersons from every corner.
Hockey in Government’s Vision for 2036
Hockey remains a priority for the central government, which is promoting it via flagship programs including the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and Target Asian Games Group (TAGG). Under these initiatives, funding is provided for training, skill enhancement, exposure trips, and infrastructure development. The government aims to enhance India’s global sporting presence and is working to ensure India is counted among the top sporting nations by 2036.
Commemorative Publication and Exhibition
The centenary will also see the launch of “100 Years of Indian Hockey,” a book tracing the sport’s journey from its early Olympic glory days to present resurgence. Additionally, a large photo exhibition at the Delhi venue will showcase rare photos, memorabilia, and iconic Olympic moments, allowing visitors a visual walk through a century of achievements.
Future Ready: Strengthening the Sport
Hockey India officials emphasise their commitment to transparency and grassroots development. Investments are being directed into coaching, analytics, and professional leagues for both men and women. The focus is on building a stronger foundation, ensuring India reclaims elite global hockey status in the years to come.
With this centenary celebration, India honours its past glory and renews its commitment to take hockey to greater heights. The festivities ensure that the legacy of Indian hockey is not only remembered but carried forward with renewed vigour and pride.