Jalandhar:- The 72nd Inter-Services Hockey Championship 2025-26 concluded with a grand closing ceremony at the Vajra Astroturf Hockey Stadium located at Army Hockey Node (AHN), Jalandhar. The event was organised under the aegis of the Army Sports Control Board. Organised by Vajra Corps, the championship brought together the best hockey players from various services, who displayed unparalleled skills and further strengthened the spirit of sportsmanship, physical excellence and inter-service camaraderie.
Held from March 9 to 13, 2026, the tournament saw teams from Army Red, Army Green, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force compete in a round-robin league format. The championship concluded with a thrilling final match between Army Red and Indian Navy, in which Army Red won 6-5 through a penalty shootout.
The final match was a thrilling affair, with fast-paced play, brilliant tactics and exceptional stickwork by the players keeping the spectators on the edge of their seats till the final whistle.
The local community, ex-servicemen and sports enthusiasts participated enthusiastically in the championship. The event celebrated the glorious legacy of Services Hockey and inspired the youth to excel through sports and national service.
The Army Hockey Node, Jalandhar, is playing a vital role in nurturing the brilliant hockey talent within the Services by providing a structured training and competitive environment.
Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar (PVSM, UYSM, AVSM), General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest. The event was also attended by prominent hockey personalities, former Olympians, FIH officials, Hockey India selectors and senior administrative officials. They interacted with the players and encouraged the budding talent.
The event concluded with a lively cultural performance showcasing the rich dance and cultural traditions of Punjab. This was followed by the prize distribution ceremony.
The successful organisation of this championship once again reaffirms the commitment of the Indian Army to nurture sporting talent, promote excellence, discipline and team spirit and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood between the services.