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Hero MotorCorp rides away with Hockey India League title sponsorship.
MUMBAI: Wish a lot many more sports had this kind of support. Strengthening its commitment to the growth and development of hockey, the world’s largest maker of bikes and scooters Hero MotoCorp has signed on as the title sponsor of the Hockey India League (HIL) for the next three seasons, starting from 2024-25. Specific sponsorship amounts were not disclosed, but guesstimate are that it is in the double digit crore territory.Coal India was the previous title sponsor.
This alliance between Hero MotoCorp and the HIL aims to rejuvenate one of India’s most cherished sports, expanding its reach and fostering a vibrant platform for emerging talent.
The tournament, set to begin on 28 December will feature eight men’s teams and, for the first time, four women’s teams. The introduction of the Women’s HIL marks a historic milestone in Indian hockey, underscoring a significant step forward for the inclusion and empowerment of women in sports.
Hero MotoCorp executive vice-president Sanjay Bhan said, “Hero MotoCorp is deeply committed to nurturing and supporting sports globally, with a special emphasis on India. Hockey holds a unique place in our hearts, reflecting our nation’s rich sporting heritage. The Hero Hockey India League is more than just a competition – it’s a celebration of our shared passion for the sport, an inspiration for future athletes, and a unifier for communities.”
HIL governing committee chairperson Dilip Tirkey said: “Hero MotoCorp has always been a pioneer in supporting Indian sports, and their association with the Hero Hockey India League will elevate the tournament’s stature. With their title sponsorship, we are confident that the Hero Hockey India League will reach greater heights, inspiring players and fans alike. Together, we aim to make this league a true celebration of hockey as IndiaKaGame.”
HIL governing committee member Bhola Nath Singh added, “Hero MotoCorp’s partnership is a testament to the growing popularity of the HIL.Their support will not only enhance the league’s visibility but also strengthen the narrative of hockey as a unifying force in India.”
The Hero HIL can be watched through a wide array of platforms, including television, digital channels, and radio, ensuring that audiences remain connected to every thrilling match and moment. With Hero MotoCorp’s support, the league aims to nurture the sport, inspire future generations of players, and spotlight India’s hockey talent on the global stage.
(Picture courtesy Hockey India League website)
NEW DELHI: Hamdard Laboratories gathered a cross-section of India’s achievers in New Delhi on Friday, handing out the Hakeem Abdul Hameed Excellence Awards to figures who have left their mark across healthcare, education, sport, public service and the arts.
The ceremony, attended by minister of state for defence Sanjay Seth and senior officials from the ministry of Ayush, celebrated individuals whose work blends professional success with a sense of public purpose. It was as much a roll call of achievement as it was a reminder that influence is not measured only in profits or podiums, but in people reached and lives improved.
Among the headline awardees was Alakh Pandey, founder and chief executive of PhysicsWallah, recognised for turning affordable digital learning into a mass movement. On the sporting front, Arjuna Awardee and kabaddi player Sakshi Puniya was honoured for her contribution to the game and for pushing women’s participation onto bigger stages.
The cultural spotlight fell on veteran lyricist and poet Santosh Anand, whose songs have echoed across generations of Hindi cinema. At 97, Anand accepted the honour with characteristic humility, reflecting on a life shaped by perseverance and hope.
Healthcare honours spanned both modern and traditional systems. Manoj N. Nesari was recognised for strengthening Ayurveda’s place in national and global health frameworks. Padma shri Mohammed Abdul Waheed was honoured for his research-backed work in Unani medicine, while padma shri Mohsin Wali received recognition for his long-standing contribution to patient-centred care.
Education and social development also featured prominently. Padma shri Zahir Ishaq Kazi was honoured for decades of work in education, while former Meghalaya superintendent of Police T. C. Chacko was recognised for public service. Goonj founder Anshu Gupta received an award for his dignity-centred rural development initiatives, and the Hunar Shakti Foundation was honoured for empowering women and young girls through skill development.
The Lifetime Achievement Award went to former IAS officer Shailaja Chandra for her long career in public healthcare and governance, particularly in the traditional systems under Ayush.
Speaking at the event, Hamdard chairman Abdul Majeed said the awards were a tribute to those who combine excellence with empathy. “These awardees reflect Hakeem Sahib’s belief that healthcare, education and public service must ultimately serve humanity,” he said.
Minister Seth struck a forward-looking note, saying India’s young population gives the country a unique opportunity to become a global destination for learning, health and wellness by 2047.
The ceremony also featured the trailer launch of Unani Ki Kahaani, an upcoming documentary starring actor Jim Sarbh, set to premiere on Discovery on 11 February.
Instituted in memory of Unani scholar and educationist Hakeem Abdul Hameed, the awards have grown into a national platform that celebrates those building a more inclusive and resilient India. For one evening at least, the spotlight was not just on success, but on service with substance.
