In a captivating sporting environment, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri, Hon’ble Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas & Housing and Urban Affairs, inaugurated the 3rd Hockey India Senior Women Inter Department National Championship 2023 at Shivaji Stadium. The ceremony was a thrilling kickoff to an event that promises to showcase the best of women’s hockey talent from across the nation.
Distinguished Guests and Indian Hockey Legends in Attendance
The opening ceremony and trophy unveiling were graced by esteemed guests, including Shri Pankaj Jain, Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman IndianOil, and Shri Bholanath, General Secretary, Hockey India. Indian hockey legends Ajit Pal Singh and Zaffar Iqbal also added to the grandeur of the occasion.
Minister’s Encouragement and Vision
Shri Hardeep Puri congratulated the Indian women’s team for their recent victory in the Asian Women Hockey Championship. He expressed his best wishes to the eight participating teams, emphasizing the potential for these players to become future world champions. The Minister pledged unwavering support to provide the best facilities and environment for the players to shine on the international stage.
Commitment from IndianOil: Shri Shrikant Madhav Vaidya’s Promise
Shri Shrikant Madhav Vaidya, Chairman of IndianOil, promised full support not only to women’s hockey but also to other sports. He affirmed the corporation’s commitment to creating opportunities for star female players, fostering a team of young hockey players.
Hope for the Future: Hockey India’s General Secretary Speaks
Mr. Bhola Nath Singh, General Secretary of Hockey India, extended his best wishes to the young participants. Encouraged by the growing support for women’s hockey, he expressed optimism about the day when the women’s hockey team would return from the Olympics with a medal.
Recognizing Contributions: Honoring Sh K Armugum
Historian and author of hockey in India, Sh K Armugum, was honored for his significant contribution to the sport. The event saw the distribution of brand new hockey sticks to twenty-five girls from his NGO, One Thousand Hockey Legs (OTHL).
The Battle Begins: Overview of Participating Teams
The championship promises a thrilling display of top-tier talent, featuring eight of the best women’s teams from across the nation. With more than 12 players boasting international experience, the tournament guarantees a high level of skill and competition.
Lineup of Elite Teams in the 3rd Hockey India Women’s Championship
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.
The Official Commencement: Trophy Unveiling and Opening Ceremony
The trophy unveiling and opening ceremony marked the official commencement of this prestigious championship. The event celebrates the spirit of sportsmanship and aims to promote women’s hockey at the highest level, setting the stage for an exciting and competitive tournament.
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