India will mark 100 years of its hockey legacy with nationwide celebrations on Nov. 7, including an event at New Delhi’s Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium and simultaneous programmes in more than 550 districts, Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said on Monday.
The centenary, organised in partnership with Hockey India, will celebrate the sport’s history and honour players who contributed to the country’s eight Olympic gold medals and 13 podium finishes.
“As India celebrates 100 years of hockey, we honour a century of pride, perseverance and national glory,” Mandaviya said in a statement. “The celebrations across more than 550 districts will take the story of Indian hockey to every corner of the nation, inspiring young boys and girls to play with passion.”
An exhibition match between the Sports Minister’s XI and a mixed men’s and women’s Hockey India XI will headline the main event, highlighting gender inclusion in the sport.
The government will also release a commemorative volume, “100 Years of Indian Hockey,” documenting the sport’s milestones, challenges and revival.
Mandaviya said hockey remains central to India’s sports policy and receives funding through the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) and the Target Asian Games Group (TAGG). The ministry also runs the ASMITA Hockey League to promote women’s participation at the junior and sub-junior levels.
“The government is committed to strengthening India’s sporting ecosystem through greater investment, modern infrastructure and institutional reforms,” he said. “Our vision is to make India one of the top sporting nations by 2036.”
Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey called the centenary a “proud moment,” adding that the celebrations would “honour our glorious past while inspiring a new generation.”
A large photo exhibition at the National Stadium will showcase rare archival photographs, memorabilia and Olympic moments from 1928 to the present.
More than 1,400 hockey matches are planned across 550 districts, involving over 36,000 players, with each district hosting one men’s and one women’s game to promote equality.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath Singh said the federation’s focus was on grassroots development, performance-based funding and the expansion of professional leagues. “This centenary is not just a celebration of history but a reaffirmation of our commitment to building a stronger future for Indian hockey,” he said.
-IANS