Asian Games 2026 / Odisha Govt Announces Cash Awards for Indian Women’s Hockey Team After Asian Games Gold

Bhubaneswar, Oct 3: The Odisha government on Saturday announced cash rewards for the Indian Women’s Hockey Team following their historic gold medal triumph at the Asian Games 2026, reaffirming the State’s long-standing commitment to the development of hockey in the country, officials said.

Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi has announced a cash award of ₹11 lakh each for the players and ₹5.5 lakh each for the support staff of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team in recognition of their historic Gold Medal victory at the Asian Games 2026.

The Chief Minister…

— CMO Odisha (@CMO_Odisha) October 3, 2026

In a post on social media, the Office of the Chief Minister stated that Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had sanctioned a cash award of Rs11 lakh each for the players and Rs5.5 lakh each for the support staff in recognition of the team’s achievement.

Congratulating the team, the Chief Minister praised the players for their determination, commitment and outstanding performance that brought glory to the nation. He reiterated that the Odisha government would continue to stand firmly behind Indian hockey and support sporting excellence.

The announcement came after India defeated hosts China 1-0 in the final to reclaim the women’s hockey gold medal at the Asian Games for the first time since 1982. The victory also secured a direct qualification berth for the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

India’s winning goal came in the 10th minute through Lalremsiami, who finished off a brilliantly crafted move with a powerful reverse-hit. The attack was initiated by captain Salima Tete, whose accurate pass into the circle was deftly laid off by Sakshi for Lalremsiami to fire into the roof of the net.

The goal proved decisive as the Indian defence produced a resolute display to withstand sustained pressure from the Chinese side. The victory was especially significant as China had emerged victorious in recent encounters against India, including at the Paris Olympics in 2024.
Also Read: Indian Women Beat China 1-0 to Win Asian Games Hockey Gold, Qualify for LA 2028 Olympics

The Asian Games title marks another milestone in a memorable year for Indian women’s hockey. Earlier, the team recorded its best-ever finish at the Women’s Hockey World Cup, securing fifth place at the 2026 edition held in Belgium and the Netherlands.

The latest success not only restores India’s place at the top of Asian women’s hockey but also provides momentum ahead of the road to the Los Angeles Olympics.