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Hockey India announces Power Finance Corp (PFC) as title sponsor
Mumbai: Hockey India on Wednesday announced Power Finance Corp (PFC), a state-owned company that provides financial assistance to India’s power sector, as the Title Sponsor for the upcoming PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024, scheduled to take place on 23 and 24 October 2024 at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium in New Delhi.
This series marks the return of men’s international hockey to the national capital after a decade, made possible due to PFC’s generous support and commitment. The last international match played at the venue was the Hero Hockey World League Final – Men’s Round 4, back in January 2014.
Under the administrative control of the ministry of power, PFC plays a crucial role in driving growth in the energy sector. Through strategic partnerships and investments, PFC is dedicated to contributing to India’s development through various avenues, with its association with Hockey India for PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024 being the most recent initiative.
Additionally, entry to the PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024 will be free for spectators, as part of Hockey India’s effort to make it accessible to all. A free digital ticketing system will be introduced to allow fans to secure their tickets easily. Fans will simply need to visit the official ticketing link and register their details to receive a virtual ticket, which will guarantee them hassle-free access to the Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.
Welcoming PFC onboard as the title sponsor, Hockey India president Dr Dilip Tirkey said, “We are delighted to welcome Power Finance Corporation (PFC) as the Title Sponsor for the highly anticipated PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024. This series, being played in New Delhi after a decade, is a significant milestone, not just for the city but for Hockey India as we promote the sport across the country. With the support of PFC, we look forward to creating a thrilling atmosphere at the iconic Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium.”
Hockey India secretary general Bhola Nath Singh added, “We are thrilled to have one of the leading state-owned companies, Power Finance Corporation (PFC), as the title sponsor for the PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024. Their support will strengthen Hockey India’s vision to grow hockey’s presence in India. With PFC, we look forward to providing a top-notch experience for all hockey fans.”
Parminder Chopra, CMD, PFC, said, “We at PFC are delighted to be associated with Hockey India for the India vs. Germany Bilateral Hockey Series. This marks a significant milestone as international hockey returns to Delhi after a decade, and PFC is proud to play a vital role in this partnership with Hockey India. We believe that, just like our company, Hockey India is committed to contributing to India’s rise as a global player. We keenly look forward to the series, which will be an unforgettable experience for all fans.”
India and Germany have a rich hockey history and share a fierce rivalry. In the 19 matches since 2013, India has won 8, while the reigning World Champions and Paris 2024 silver medalists have won 7. The two heavyweights in world hockey last faced each other at the Paris 2024 Olympics semi-final, where the current world champions emerged victorious, winning 3-2.
The matches will be telecasted on DD Sports and streamed live on FanCode from 1500 hrs onwards on 23rd and 24th October 2024. Entry to the stadium for spectators will begin from 1300 hrs onwards.
We are thrilled to welcome Power Finance Corporation (PFC) as the Title Sponsor for the prestigious PFC India Vs Germany Bilateral Hockey Series 2024! ?
With PFC’s support, the stage is set for an exciting series as two hockey giants go head-to-head in New Delhi.
Let’s gear… pic.twitter.com/9Ix6zOhtSc
— Hockey India (@TheHockeyIndia) October 9, 2024
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.
