The 73rd All India Police Hockey Championship-2025 wrapped up in spectacular fashion at the iconic Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar, Odisha, marking a triumphant celebration of athletic prowess, camaraderie, and national unity.
Organized under the aegis of the All India Police Sports Control Board and hosted by Odisha Police, the week-long tournament showcased thrilling matches, with Punjab (Men) and CRPF (Women) emerging as champions in their respective categories.
The closing ceremony was graced by Odisha Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati, who presented trophies to the winning teams, runners-up, and third-placed teams. In the men’s final, Punjab clinched a nail-biting 2-1 victory over CRPF, showcasing tactical brilliance and relentless energy. The women’s final saw CRPF edge out SSB with a 1-0 scoreline in a tightly contested match that kept spectators on the edge of their seats.
Odisha Police (Women) brought pride to the host state by securing the bronze medal after defeating ITBP in a fiercely competitive match. In the men’s category, ITBP claimed third place by overpowering BSF, adding to the tournament’s high-octane drama. The championship featured 26 men’s and 9 women’s teams from various state police forces, central armed police forces, and central police organizations, reflecting the diversity and strength of India’s law enforcement community.
Governor Kambhampati lauded the participants for their dedication, emphasizing the Indian police’s remarkable contribution to sports. “The Indian police have produced exceptional athletes who have brought glory to the nation. Their dual role in safeguarding the country and excelling in sports is truly commendable,” he said during his address. He also praised Odisha’s unwavering support for hockey, citing world-class infrastructure like Kalinga Stadium and Rourkela’s Birsa Munda Hockey Stadium, the latter being the world’s largest seated hockey venue.
The Governor highlighted Odisha’s pivotal role in Indian hockey’s resurgence, noting the state’s sponsorship and infrastructure development that helped the Indian men’s hockey team secure bronze medals at the Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024 Olympics. He also congratulated Odisha for winning the 14th Hockey India Senior Men’s National Championship 2024, underscoring the state’s growing dominance in the sport.
Director General of Police (DGP) Yogesh Bahadur Khurania, who played a key role in overseeing the event, described the championship as a platform for fostering unity and friendship among police forces. “This tournament is not just about competition; it’s about building bonds and celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship,” he said. Khurania expressed pride in hosting international hockey stars like Birendra Lakra and Manpreet Singh, whose participation elevated the event’s prestige.
Odisha Police’s meticulous planning ensured the tournament ran smoothly, earning accolades from participants and organizers alike. From world-class facilities to seamless logistics, the event set a high standard for future championships. “This is not the end but a new beginning. Let us carry the spirit of this game into our daily lives and service,” Khurania remarked, encapsulating the event’s broader significance.
The closing ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including Additional DGP (Headquarters) Dayal Gangwar, Additional DGP (Armed) Rajesh Kumar, Joint Director IB Rajesh Subarna, IG (Training) Anup Kumar Sahu, and Hockey India President Padma Shri Dilip Tirkey. Their presence underscored the event’s importance as a national platform for showcasing talent and unity.
The championship not only highlighted sporting excellence but also reinforced Odisha’s reputation as India’s hockey hub. With vibrant performances, emotional victories, and a shared sense of pride, the 73rd All India Police Hockey Championship left an indelible mark on all who witnessed it.
