The milestone event will mark 100 years of India\u2019s rich hockey legacy, honouring the legends who brought glory to the nation and celebrating the enduring spirit of the sport that continues to inspire millions. Celebrations will begin at 8:30 AM with a series of special events that highlight India\u2019s historic journey in hockey.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cAs 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 \u2014 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,\u201d Mandaviya said.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
A 30-minute exhibition match between the Hon\u2019ble Sports Minister\u2019s XI and Hockey India\u2019s Mixed XI (men and women) will showcase gender parity, teamwork, and inclusivity, featuring top players from both the men\u2019s and women\u2019s national teams. Afterwards, hockey legends from different generations will be honoured for their contributions to India\u2019s proud history as the world\u2019s leading hockey nation, with eight Olympic gold medals and 13 Olympic podium finishes.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Hockey ranks as a key sport in the government\u2019s agenda. Both men's and women\u2019s hockey are part of major initiatives, such as the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG). These programs provide national teams with funding for training, competitions, exposure trips, allowances, and other facilities throughout each Olympic cycle. To promote hockey among women, the sports ministry organises the ASMITA hockey league nationwide at junior and sub-junior levels.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
\u201cThe government remains deeply committed to strengthening India\u2019s sporting ecosystem through greater investment, modern infrastructure, and institutional reforms. Our vision is clear \u2014 to make India one of the top sporting nations in the world by 2036 and to consistently perform at the highest levels in every discipline. With continued collaboration between the Ministry, the Sports Authority of India, and federations like Hockey India, we will continue to nurture young talent, expand access to sport, and ensure that India\u2019s tricolour flies high on every international stage,\u201d the sports minister added.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The centenary will also mark the release of the official commemorative volume, \u201c100 Years of Indian Hockey,\u201d which chronicles the sport\u2019s remarkable journey\u2014highlighting its triumphs, challenges, and revival. This publication will function as both a historical record and a tribute to the generations of players who have contributed to India\u2019s hockey legacy.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
Hockey India president Dilip Tirkey said, \u201cCelebrating 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 \u2014 our players, coaches, fans, and partners. Together, we will make the next century even more golden.\u201d<\/p>\r\n\r\n
A large-scale photo exhibition at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium will guide visitors through a visual journey celebrating 100 years of history, showcasing rare archival photographs, memorabilia, and Olympic moments\u2014from the 1928 Amsterdam Games to today\u2019s resurgence.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
To celebrate the occasion locally, over 1,400 hockey matches will take place simultaneously in 550 districts nationwide, involving more than 36,000 players. Each district will host one men\u2019s and one women\u2019s match, representing equality and inclusion. The goal is to foster a festive environment across the country, bringing together rural and urban India in a celebration of the national sport.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
A large-scale photo exhibition at the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium will guide visitors through a visual journey celebrating 100 years of history, showcasing rare archival photographs, memorabilia, and Olympic moments\u2014from the 1928 Amsterdam Games to today\u2019s resurgence.<\/p>\r\n\r\n
The Ministry of Sports and Hockey India are dedicated to safeguarding and advancing India\u2019s hockey legacy while fostering a new era of excellence and inclusivity in the sport.<\/p>\r\n\r\n