Hockey India to give aid to Afghanistan Hockey Federation

New Delhi: With the aim of promoting hockey as a sport across the world, Hockey India on Saturday took a strategic decision to provide aid to the Afghanistan Hockey Federation.

The decision was taken in the 22nd Board Meeting of Hockey India held here. Afghanistan Hockey Federation had requested for aid in a communiqu received early this month. HI Board has agreed to send hockey sticks, balls and goalkeeper pads to them. Speaking on the contribution, HI secretary general Narinder Batra said, "Hockey India is committed to the grassroot development of the sport. This is a small contribution to promote hockey among enthusiasts in Afghanistan." In another initiative, Hockey India has increased the annual grant of State Units members from Rs. 6.00 lacs to Rs. 8.00 lacs. In addition, associate member (non-institutional) will get Rs. 3.00 lacs and other members will get Rs 2.00 lacs per annum.