72nd Inter-Services Hockey Championship Concludes

Hoshiarpur/Jalandhar/Daljeet Ajnoha
J/Mar. 15 : The 72nd Inter-Services Hockey Championship 2025-26 ended on a high note with a grand closing ceremony at the Vajra Astroturf Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar. Top players from the services delivered stellar performances.
**Event Details**
Organised by Vajra Corps under the leadership of the Army Sports Control Board at the Army Hockey Node (AHN), Jalandhar, the championship ran from March 9 to 13, 2026. Teams from Army Red, Army Green, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force competed in a round-robin league format. The event reinforced sportsmanship, physical excellence, and inter-services camaraderie.
**Final Showdown**
The final between Army Red and Indian Navy was a thriller, with Army Red clinching a 6-5 victory in penalty shootouts. Fast-paced action, brilliant strategies, and exceptional stickwork kept spectators glued till the last second.
**Closing Ceremony**
Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar (PVSM, UYSM, AVSM), General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, graced the occasion as chief guest.
** Former Olympians** FIH officials, Hockey India selectors, and senior administrators attended, motivating the players. The ceremony featured vibrant performances of Punjab’s rich dance and cultural traditions, followed by prize distribution.
**Key Contributions**
The Army Hockey Node in Jalandhar plays a vital role in nurturing hockey talent in the armed forces through structured training and competitive environments.
**Local communities** ex-servicemen, and sports enthusiasts participated enthusiastically, inspiring youth towards excellence in sports and national service. The event underscores the Indian Army’s commitment to developing sports talent, discipline, and team spirit.