Indian hockey, once a dominant force in the world, experienced a period of decline in the late 20th century. However, in recent years, the sport has seen a resurgence, with both the men’s and women’s teams making significant strides on the international stage. The turning point came during the Tokyo 2020 Olympics when the Indian men’s team secured a bronze medal, their first Olympic hockey medal in 41 years.
The men’s team, captained by Harmanpreet Singh, has since continued its strong performance. In 2023, India won the Asian Champions Trophy, defeating Malaysia in a thrilling final. Players like PR Sreejesh, Manpreet Singh, and Mandeep Singh have been instrumental in India’s success, providing experience and leadership to a team that blends youth with experience. India’s women’s team has also been on an upward trajectory, led by Savita Punia. Their fourth-place finish at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and a silver medal at the 2023 FIH Women’s Nations Cup have brought the team into the global spotlight.
The Hockey India League (HIL), although no longer in operation, played a key role in raising the standard of domestic hockey and providing players with much-needed international exposure. Moreover, state governments, particularly Odisha, have invested heavily in hockey infrastructure. The Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar has become a hub for international tournaments and serves as the training ground for the national teams.
Grassroots development has been critical to the resurgence of Indian hockey. Initiatives by Hockey India and state-level associations have ensured that young talent is being identified and nurtured across the country. States like Haryana, Punjab, and Odisha have emerged as hotbeds for hockey, producing players who are now mainstays in the national teams.
With the 2024 Paris Olympics on the horizon, both the men’s and women’s teams are gearing up for another shot at Olympic glory. The future of Indian hockey looks promising, with young players like Vivek Sagar Prasad and Lalremsiami ready to carry the legacy forward.