Key Points:
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Highlights of the New Astroturf Grounds
Each facility meets FIH (International Hockey Federation) specifications, offering players the same conditions they will encounter in international tournaments.
Advancing Infrastructure for Grassroots Development and Global Competitiveness
New Delhi, India: In a groundbreaking initiative to revolutionize hockey in India, 50 state-of-the-art astroturf hockey grounds have been inaugurated nationwide under the Khelo India Scheme. The project, spearheaded by Hockey India in collaboration with the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, is aimed at nurturing talent and making India a formidable force in global hockey.
This initiative, supported by an investment of over ₹300 crore, marks a decisive step toward providing world-class facilities to budding and professional players across the country, particularly in regions with a strong hockey tradition.
Highlights of the New Astroturf Grounds
World-Class Standards
- Each facility meets FIH (International Hockey Federation) specifications, offering players the same conditions they will encounter in international tournaments.
Nationwide Reach
- The grounds have been distributed across 17 states, with hockey hubs like Punjab, Odisha, and Jharkhand receiving significant focus, alongside emerging centers in the northeast and southern India.
Sustainable Construction
- Several facilities incorporate water-efficient turf technologies, aligning with India’s push for eco-friendly sports infrastructure.
Impact on Indian Hockey
Empowering Grassroots Players
- The new grounds will directly benefit over 100,000 players, offering them access to high-quality training environments, which were previously limited to a few cities.
Enhancing Rural Representation
- In regions like Odisha and Jharkhand, where hockey is deeply rooted in local culture, these grounds will act as talent incubators, helping rural youth transition to higher levels of competition.
Strengthening International Competitiveness
- By providing exposure to professional-grade facilities, Indian players will be better prepared for tournaments like the Olympics, Asian Games, and World Cup.
Government and Stakeholder Support
Khelo India’s Vision
- The initiative is part of the government’s larger vision to create a sustainable sports ecosystem, combining infrastructure development with robust talent identification and coaching programs.
Collaborative Efforts
- States such as Odisha have partnered with the central government to ensure these facilities are utilized effectively, creating job opportunities for coaches and support staff.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Maintenance and Accessibility
- Sustaining these facilities and ensuring they are accessible to economically disadvantaged players remain critical challenges.
Holistic Development Programs
- Along with infrastructure, introducing advanced coaching, nutrition, and psychological support programs will be vital to optimize the impact of these grounds.
A New Era for Indian Hockey
The inauguration of 50 astroturf hockey grounds is more than just an infrastructure project—it is a symbol of India’s commitment to reviving its hockey legacy. By creating opportunities at the grassroots level and ensuring players have access to world-class facilities, the initiative lays the foundation for India’s resurgence on the global stage.
With robust government support and widespread enthusiasm, Indian hockey is poised for a golden future, fostering dreams of international glory for players from every corner of the country.
