Sports Minister Mansukh Mandaviya has directed Hockey India and franchise owners of the Hockey India League (HIL) to prepare a comprehensive roadmap ensuring the league’s financial viability and sustainability.
At a meeting attended by senior ministry officials, franchise representatives, and Hockey India executives, Mandaviya emphasised the need to prioritise the Governance Model, Financial Model, and League Structure. He instructed stakeholders to form a five‑member committee comprising two representatives each from Hockey India and the franchises, along with a senior Sports Ministry official, to present a time‑bound revival plan.
Franchise owners from Hyderabad Toofans, Vedanta Kalinga Lancers, JSW Soorma Hockey Club, Shachi Bengal Tigers, ALP Pipers, JK Cements, and the new Bengaluru team participated in the discussions. Senior officials including Sports Secretary Hari Ranjan Rao, SAI DG, TOPS CEO, and Hockey India representatives joined the meeting.
The HIL, revived last year after a seven‑year gap, has faced concerns over its financial sustainability and franchise participation. Mandaviya’s directive comes amid an ongoing power tussle within Hockey India, with President Dilip Tirkey curtailing the powers of Director General Cdr R K Srivastava.
Despite internal challenges, the ministry’s push signals intent to stabilise the league and secure its long‑term future, with the committee expected to deliver a structured revival plan in the coming months.
