PM Modi congratulates women’s hockey team for historic Asian Games gold

Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Indian women’s hockey team after they ended their 44-year wait for an Asian Games gold medal with a 1-0 victory over defending champions China in the final on Friday.

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Speaking to X, he described the triumph as “a very special moment for Indian hockey” and said the achievement brought joy across the country. He praised the team’s skills, teamwork and determination while wishing the players well in their future endeavours. Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated the Indian women’s hockey team. (Image: X/@PMOIndia)

The victory in Aichi-Nagoya marked only the second time India won the women’s hockey gold at the Asian Games. Their previous triumph came in 1982 when the event debuted. India later finished second in 1998 and 2018, falling short of South Korea and Japan.

The latest gold also secured India a direct qualifying spot for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, adding further significance to the triumph.

DEFENSE HOLDS TIGHT

India’s gold medal was built on a quick start and a disciplined defensive display. Lalremsiami opened the scoring in the 10th minute with a brilliant tomahawk to give India an early advantage against the Chinese side that won the previous edition of the Asian Games.

China responded with sustained pressure throughout the contest, but India’s defense repeatedly held its shape. Seasoned goalkeeper Savita Punia produced one of the defining moments of the final when she saved a Chinese penalty to preserve India’s slim lead.

The latter stages became a test of India’s composure as China continued to search for an equaliser. The Indian players stood firm to see the contest and secure a significant gold medal.

PM PRAISES THE TEAM

The Prime Minister said the team’s success was the result of “exceptional skills and teamwork” and described their determination as inspiring. He also expressed hope that the success would help hockey become more popular across the country.

For a team that had waited more than four decades to return to the top stage of the Asian Games, the win represented a significant moment in Indian women’s hockey.

China settled for silver, while Japan won the bronze medal after beating South Korea in a third-place playoff.

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