Padma Shri honoree Savita Punia reflects on Hockey journey, eyes World Cup gold
New Delhi, June 23
Padma Shri awardee and Indian hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia expressed happiness and pride over her journey in hockey, recalling how she was once afraid to step out of her house and viewed playing the sport as an impossible dream. She described visiting Rashtrapati Bhavan with her family as a deeply meaningful moment.
Savita emphasised the importance of the FIH Pro League as ideal preparation against the world's best teams and voiced confidence about India's prospects at the upcoming FIH Hockey Women's World Cup. With India placed in a favourable pool, she said the team is aiming higher than previous podium finishes and will be targeting the gold medal.
President Droupadi Murmu will present the prestigious honour to Punia at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi on Tuesday.
"I am definitely very happy because I have had a long journey in hockey...There was a time when I was afraid to even leave the house, and playing hockey felt like a distant dream. Today, I get to visit the Rashtrapati Bhavan with my family, so it is a truly significant moment for me... If you want to compete against the top teams in the world, the Pro League is the best tournament. Beyond that, we have the World Cup ahead, where we are placed in a very good pool, and we are confident. We talk about having silver and bronze, so we have to go for gold this time," Punia told ANI.
Along with Punia, former Indian skipper Rohit Sharma, and Bhagwandas Raikwar will receive Padma Shri, while Vladimir Mestvirishvili will be honoured with the Padma Shri posthumously, and tennis legend Vijay Amritraj is set to receive the Padma Bhushan.
The Padma Awards 2026 are being conferred by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. During the second Civil Investiture Ceremony on June 23, a total of 65 Padma Awards are scheduled to be presented, including two Padma Vibhushan, seven Padma Bhushan and 56 Padma Shri awards.
The first Civil Investiture Ceremony for the Padma Awards 2026 was held on May 26, during which 66 Padma Awards were conferred.
— ANI
Reader Comments
Savita is a true role model for every girl in India. Her story shows that with determination, even the biggest dreams can come true. I just hope the government invests more in grassroots hockey—so many talented girls in villages never get this chance.
Great to see Indian women's hockey getting this recognition. Savita's dedication is remarkable. But I wonder if the Pro League schedule is too grueling before a World Cup—hope the team manages fitness well.
What a moment for her family! Visiting Rashtrapati Bhavan with parents—that must be surreal. Savita's confidence about the World Cup is exactly what we need. Gold this time, no doubt! 💪
I'm not Indian, but Savita's story resonates universally. The fear she overcame is something many athletes face. I hope the Indian team does well—their pool looks favorable, and with her in goal, they have a solid chance. 🏑
Savita Punia is a gem! But let's not forget the entire team's effort—Rani Rampal, Vandana Katariya, and others who make these achievements possible. Also, it's great to see multiple Padma awards going to sportspersons. Recognition matters so much for future generations.
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