THE MINISTRY OF YOUTH AFFAIRS AND SPORTS has announced celebrations to mark 100 years of Indian hockey (1925–2025). In partnership with Hockey India, the centenary event will take place on 7 November at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi, with parallel activities planned across more than 550 districts nationwide.
The landmark occasion will honour a century of hockey excellence, celebrating legendary athletes, iconic victories, and the enduring spirit of a sport that has inspired generations. The celebrations in New Delhi will begin at 8:30 AM, featuring a programme designed to reflect the sport’s rich legacy and cultural significance.
A 30-minute exhibition match between the Union Minister’s XI and Hockey India’s Mixed XI (Men & Women) will underscore the values of gender equality, teamwork, and inclusivity, with leading national-team players in participation. The match will be followed by a ceremony recognising hockey icons across eras for their contribution to India’s status as the most successful nation in Olympic hockey history, with eight gold medals and 13 podium finishes.
Hockey remains one of the government’s priority disciplines under schemes such as the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG), through which national teams receive comprehensive support including funding for training, competitions, exposure tours, and allowances. To further boost participation among women, the Sports Ministry also runs the ASMITA Hockey League at junior and sub-junior levels across the country.
The centenary will also include the release of a special commemorative volume, “100 Years of Indian Hockey”, documenting the sport’s illustrious journey and saluting generations of players who have shaped its legacy. A large-scale photo exhibition at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium will showcase rare archival images, memorabilia, and iconic Olympic moments from the 1928 Amsterdam Games to India’s modern-day resurgence.
At the grassroots level, more than 1,400 hockey matches will be played simultaneously across 550 districts, involving over 36,000 participants. Each district will host one men’s and one women’s match, symbolising equal representation and inclusivity, and transforming the centenary into a nationwide sporting festival.
Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports & Labour and Employment Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya said, “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.”
Hockey India president Dr. Dilip Tirkey said, “Celebrating 100 years of Indian hockey is a deeply emotional and proud moment for all of us. This milestone honours our glorious past while inspiring a new generation to carry the legacy forward. Indian hockey has always represented the spirit of resilience, unity, and excellence. As we celebrate this centenary, our focus is on strengthening the game from the grassroots, empowering both men and women equally, and preparing our teams to reach the pinnacle of world hockey once again. I extend heartfelt gratitude to all those who have stood by Indian hockey over the years — our players, coaches, fans, and partners. Together, we will make the next century even more golden.”
