Jalandhar:- The 72nd Inter-Services Hockey Championship 2025–26 began with a grand opening ceremony at the Vajra Astroturf Hockey Stadium of the Army Hockey Node (AHN) in Jalandhar. The event is being conducted under the leadership of the Army Sports Control Board. Organized by the Vajra Corps, this prestigious championship showcases top hockey talent from across the armed services while promoting sportsmanship, physical excellence and inter-services camaraderie.
The championship is being held from 9 to 13 March 2026 and features four teams — Army Red, Army Green, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force — competing in a round-robin league format. The tournament will conclude on 13 March 2026 with the final match and prize distribution ceremony.
The tournament was officially inaugurated by Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Vajra Corps, in the presence of senior military officers, soldiers, distinguished veterans, members of the hockey community and officials from the Punjab Government. The championship commenced with the ceremonial rolling of the ball, marking the start of an exciting competition among the services.
The opening match between Army Red and Army Green set an exciting tone for the tournament, with both teams displaying impressive skill, discipline and competitive spirit.
One of the largest sporting events of the Armed Forces, the Inter-Services Hockey Championship serves as an important platform for identifying and nurturing talented players who will represent the services at national and international levels. The championship promotes excellence in sports, physical fitness and teamwork, while also strengthening the bonds of friendship among the services.
The Army Hockey Node, Jalandhar, plays a significant role in this effort by providing structured training and competitive exposure, contributing greatly to the development of top hockey talent within the services.
The tournament is expected to attract hockey enthusiasts, veterans and sports lovers from across the region to celebrate the proud legacy of services hockey and its lasting contribution to India’s sporting landscape.