Jammu: Hockey Jammu and Kashmir, in collaboration with the Jammu & Kashmir Sports Council, organized a special programme to commemorate 100 years of Indian Hockey.
As part of the celebrations, two exhibition matches—one each for the men’s and women’s teams—were played at the K.K. Hakku Stadium, Jammu.
The event was graced by Shri Rajeev Sharma, Member of the J&K Sports Council, as the Chief Guest, and Shri Kuldeep Handoo, Dronacharya Awardee, as the Special Guest.
Speaking on the occasion, Shri Rajeev Sharma said, “As we celebrate 100 glorious years of Indian Hockey, we proudly honour our rich legacy and the countless champions who have brought glory to our nation. This milestone is a testament to our passion, perseverance, and the enduring spirit of the game.”
Dr. Taran Singh, General Secretary of Hockey J&K, informed that similar programmes are being organized simultaneously across 15 districts of Jammu and Kashmir to mark this historic occasion.
He highlighted India’s remarkable hockey journey, noting that the country won its first Olympic gold medal in 1928, remained unbeaten until 1960, and clinched a total of eight Olympic gold medals. India also secured the Hockey World Cup in 1975 and continues to be a leading Asian hockey powerhouse, winning numerous Asian championships.
Dr. Singh further announced that India will host the 2025 Junior Men’s Hockey World Cup in Tamil Nadu. As part of the World Cup Trophy Tour organized by Hockey India, Jammu has been chosen as one of the host cities. The trophy will arrive at Jammu Airport on November 11, 2025, at 9:30 AM, followed by a grand celebration at K.K. Hakku Hockey Stadium.
The event was also attended by several prominent sports personalities and officials, including Tejinder Singh, Secretary, Hockey J&K; Rinku Bagga, Executive Member; Satpaul Singh Kala, Ex-DSO; Ajay Gupta, Manager, K.K. Hakku Stadium; and Manjit Singh, Iqbal Singh, and Janak Singh, Ex-Veteran Player. They appreciated the initiative and congratulated Hockey J&K for successfully organizing the event as part of the centenary celebrations.
Dr. Taran Singh extended an open invitation to all sports enthusiasts and hockey lovers to join the upcoming celebrations and be part of this proud moment in India’s hockey history.
