Hockey India’s (HI) bid to be the sole body of governance for the national sport in the country has got a shot in the arm after the Government of India recently accorded it the status of a National Sports Federation (NSF).
HI, which was derecognised by the Union Sports Ministry in 2012 for not adhering to government guidelines, internal disputes and mismanagement, has finally been recognised as the sole body for the promotion of hockey in the country by the government.
In a letter addressed to HI secretary-general Narinder Batra, dated February 28, Under Secretary to the Government of India, AK Patro, said HI will be the sole body responsible for running the game of hockey in the country.
“The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India recognises the importance of the sport of hockey in India, its popularity among the masses and medal prospects of India in various international events. Keeping these factors in view, the Ministry realises the need to quickly resolve the long-pending issue of granting recognition to a federation as NSF for the sport of hockey,” the letter read.
“After a careful and detailed examination of the documents on record and keeping in view all the relevant factors, Government of India, Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, has reached the conclusion that ‘Hockey India’ may be given recognition as the National Sports Federation for governing the sport of hockey (both men and women) in India,” it said. “Accordingly, Hockey India is made responsible and accountable for the overall management, direction, control, regulation, promotion and development of the sport discipline, i.e. hockey,” the letter added.
Batra thanked the Sports Ministry for recognising the federation’s efforts and said it was a “moment of pride” for the entire hockey fraternity.
“It is a moment of pride for not only Hockey India but even for players and coaches who have worked towards this goal in their own ways and efforts,” he said.
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