Launching the 3rd Hockey India Women's Championship 2023

Table of content

Women’s Championship 2023

Women’s Championship 2023: In an atmosphere pulsating with sporting fervor, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, the Hon’ble Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Housing and Urban Affairs, inaugurated the 3rd Hockey India Senior Women Inter Department National Championship 2023 and unveiled the tournament trophy at the renowned Shivaji Stadium.

Download August 2024 BOLT PDF (Current Affairs)

Notable Dignitaries and Hockey Icons in Attendance

The opening ceremony and trophy revelation witnessed the esteemed presence of key figures, including Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman IndianOil, and Shri Bholanath, General Secretary, Hockey India. The event was further adorned by the legendary presence of Indian hockey icons Ajit Pal Singh and Zaffar Iqbal.

Hosted by Indian Oil Corporation Limited

The responsibility of hosting this prestigious tournament falls on the shoulders of Indian Oil Corporation Limited, demonstrating their dedication to fostering and supporting hockey talent in the country.

Minister’s Applause and Encouragement

During his address, Shri Hardeep Puri commended the recent triumph of the Indian women’s team in the Asian Women Hockey Championship. He extended his heartfelt wishes to the eight participating teams, expressing confidence in their potential to become future world champions. Shri Puri reiterated the government’s commitment to providing top-tier facilities and a conducive environment for the players to shine on the international stage.

Nostalgia and Appreciation

Reflecting on bygone days, Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, reminisced about his role as a medical volunteer during the 1982 Asian Games hockey matches at the same Shivaji Stadium. He hailed the players as role models, inspiring the younger generation with their exemplary performances.

IndianOil’s Pledge of Support

Shri Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman of IndianOil, pledged comprehensive support not only to women’s hockey but also to other sports. He underscored the company’s initiative in forming a team of young hockey players, expressing hope that others would follow suit to provide more opportunities for female athletes.

Optimism from Hockey India

Mr. Bhola Nath Singh, General Secretary of Hockey India, conveyed his best wishes to the participating teams. Buoyed by the increasing support for women’s hockey, he expressed confidence that the day is not far when the women’s hockey team will return from the Olympics with a coveted medal.

Honoring a Hockey Historian: Women’s Championship 2023

The event also paid tribute to Sh K Armugum, a historian and author of hockey in India, for his substantial contribution to the sport. His NGO, One Thousand Hockey Legs (OTHL), received support as twenty-five girls were presented with brand new hockey sticks by the Hon’ble Minister and other dignitaries.

A Glimpse into the Championship

The championship promises to be a riveting exhibition of top-notch talent, featuring eight of the nation’s best women’s teams. Twelve players among the participants boast previous international representation, bringing a wealth of experience and skill to the tournament. The participating teams include All Indian Police Sports Control Board, Railway Sports Promotion Board, UCO Bank, Sports Authority of India, Union Bank of India, Sashastra Seema Bal, Tamil Nadu Police, and the host Indian Oil Corporation-Women.

Official Commencement: Women’s Championship 2023

The trophy unveiling and opening ceremony marked the official initiation of this esteemed championship, celebrating the essence of sportsmanship and advancing women’s hockey to new heights. The tournament is poised to enthrall spectators with its showcase of skill, determination, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in women’s hockey.

Priti Palit

Priti Palit, an accomplished edtech writer, boasts a wealth of experience in preparing candidates for multiple government exams. With a passion for education and a keen eye for detail, she has contributed significantly to the field of online learning. Priti’s expertise and dedication continue to empower aspiring individuals in their pursuit of success in government examinations.

Oliveboard Live Courses & Mock Test Series