New Delhi, October 8: Indian hockey’s call to save the Hockey India League has received a response, with the Sports Ministry forming a seven-member committee to explore the revival of the crisis-hit competition.
India captain Salima Tete and veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia had made an emotional appeal for the survival of the Women’s Hockey India League during the World Cup in August.
The players had highlighted the importance of the league in providing Indian women hockey players with a regular high-level competitive platform and greater exposure alongside international stars.
Two months after their appeal, the Sports Ministry has stepped in by setting up the seven-member panel to work on measures aimed at reviving the Hockey India League.
The development comes at a crucial time for Indian women’s hockey, with players and coaches repeatedly stressing the need for a strong domestic competition structure to sustain the growth of the national team.
The Hockey India League had returned in 2024-25 after a seven-year gap, with both men’s and women’s competitions introduced. However, the women’s league has faced uncertainty over its continuation.
For Tete and Savita, who have been central figures in Indian women’s hockey, the league represents more than just another tournament—it is an important pathway for young players to gain experience, exposure and opportunities to compete at the highest level.
The formation of the committee now offers a fresh push towards finding a sustainable model for the league and ensuring that the women’s competition remains part of India’s hockey calendar.
