India’s rich history in hockey dates back to the early 20th century when the national men’s team dominated the sport, winning multiple Olympic gold medals. However, after the 1980s, the sport witnessed a decline in performance and popularity, being overshadowed by cricket. But in recent years, hockey has seen a remarkable resurgence in India, particularly following the men’s bronze medal win at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics. This victory rekindled the country’s passion for hockey and marked a turning point for the sport.
The revival of hockey can be credited to several factors, including the introduction of the Hockey India League (HIL) in 2013. Though the league was discontinued after 2017, it played a pivotal role in improving the standard of Indian hockey by attracting international players and offering domestic players a chance to hone their skills. Moreover, state governments like Odisha’s have significantly invested in infrastructure, including the world-class Kalinga Stadium, which regularly hosts international tournaments.
India’s men’s team, led by captain Harmanpreet Singh, has consistently delivered strong performances in recent years. The team’s triumph in the 2023 Asian Champions Trophy, where they defeated Malaysia in the final, further showcased India’s return to form. Harmanpreet’s leadership, combined with the defensive prowess of goalkeeper PR Sreejesh, has made India a formidable force in world hockey once again.
On the women’s front, the Indian team, captained by Savita Punia, has also been making waves on the global stage. The team’s fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and their silver medal at the 2023 FIH Women’s Nations Cup demonstrated their growing strength. Young players like Lalremsiami and Salima Tete have emerged as future stars, indicating a bright future for Indian women’s hockey.
Grassroots development is also playing a crucial role in the resurgence of Indian hockey. The Hockey India Academy and various state-level initiatives are nurturing young talent, particularly in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Odisha. With sustained efforts at both the grassroots and elite levels, Indian hockey is on a path to reclaiming its former glory on the global stage.