In a significant move to support the welfare of its players, Hockey India has announced an annual grant of Rs 2 lakh for unemployed members of the senior core group. This decision, made during the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held in Lucknow, aims to provide financial assistance to players who are not currently employed by government organizations or public sector units (PSUs).
Hockey India’s initiative for the Athletes in the country
The initiative comes in response to concerns raised about the financial stability of some players, particularly newcomers in the senior core group, who have not yet secured employment. Hockey India President Dilip Tirkey highlighted that while many players receive job offers from PSUs and government departments due to their performances in domestic and international competitions, there are still several who remain unemployed.
“To aid those who are unemployed, Hockey India is providing financial assistance so that they or their families don’t have to struggle to make ends meet,” said Tirkey. This grant is expected to alleviate some of the financial burdens faced by these players, allowing them to focus on their training and performance without the added stress of financial insecurity.
The Rs 2 lakh grant will be provided annually to each eligible player in the senior men’s and women’s core probable groups. This financial support is intended to help players sustain their careers in the sport, ensuring that they can continue to train and compete at the highest levels. The decision was unanimously approved by the Hockey India Executive Board during the AGM.
This move is part of Hockey India’s broader strategy to support and develop the sport at all levels. The AGM also reviewed the progress of the national teams at both senior and junior levels, discussed upcoming tournaments, and deliberated on grassroots initiatives aimed at promoting hockey across the country.
The financial grant is expected to have a positive impact on the morale and performance of the players. By providing this support, Hockey India hopes to encourage more young athletes to pursue hockey as a career, knowing that there is a safety net in place to support them during challenging times.
The 14th Hockey India Congress, held in Lucknow, was a landmark event with representatives from all 31 State Member Units coming together for a transformative discussion. Under the esteemed leadership of Hockey India Hon'ble Hon'ble President Dr. Dilip Tirkey, Secretary General… pic.twitter.com/AQFSfzVN8y
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The announcement of the grant was made in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, who hosted representatives from 31 state member units of Hockey India and the Hockey India Executive Board for high tea at his residence in Lucknow. The Chief Minister expressed his support for the initiative and emphasized the importance of developing hockey in Uttar Pradesh, a state with a rich history of producing legendary hockey players.
In addition to the financial grant, the AGM also focused on other key areas for the development of hockey in India. Discussions included the upcoming Hockey India League, which is expected to bring exciting opportunities for players and fans alike. The AGM also emphasized the importance of coaches’ education pathways and the deployment of former hockey stars in various roles to further boost the sport.
