Sports ministry, HI to celebrate 100 years of Indian hockey

The Sports Ministry and Hockey India on Monday announced plans to celebrate 100 years of Indian Hockey on November 7.

The centenary celebration that would be held in the Capital’s Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium besides programmes across the country will include a 30-minute exhibition match in the morning between the Sports Minister XI and Hockey India Mixed XI. Further, former players will be felicitated followed by a release of an official commemorative volume titled 100 Years of Indian Hockey.

The Indian Hockey Federation was formed on November 7, 1925, in Gwalior and became a full member of the International Hockey Federation in 1928.

An exhibition of rare photographs, memorabilia, and Olympics moments from 1928 till date will also be held. Hockey India has planned 1,400 matches, for both men and women, simultaneously across 550 districts.

“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,” Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said.

“The government remains deeply committed to strengthening India’s sporting ecosystem through greater investment, modern infrastructure, and institutional reforms. Our vision is clear — 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’s Tricolour flies high on every international stage,” he added.