Young Hockey Stars Make India Proud, President Murmu Says

New Delhi, September 14, 2026 India’s junior hockey teams have delivered a strong double success at the Asia Cup, with both the men’s and women’s sides securing victories and World Cup qualification. President Droupadi Murmu praised the young players, highlighting their discipline, dedication and collective effort behind the achievements. The junior women’s team produced a tightly contested performance against China in Sunday’s final, securing a 1-0 victory to lift the AHF Junior Asia Cup title. Their triumph also confirmed India’s qualification for the Junior Women’s Hockey World Cup. “It is heartening to see young players setting inspiring examples of channelling positive energy for excellence. My best wishes to all the young players for continued success in the future,” she said in a post on X. India’s junior men also retained their Asia Cup crown with a convincing 4-1 win over Korea in the final at Moqi, China. The victory ensured their place in the World Cup and completed a memorable campaign for Indian junior hockey. “Heartiest congratulations to our Junior Men’s and Women’s Hockey Teams on their outstanding victories in the Asia Cup. Their dedication, discipline and teamwork have brought immense pride to the nation,” the President said. The twin triumphs underline the growing strength of India’s next generation of hockey players and provide a strong platform for their upcoming World Cup campaigns.