Doordarshan, the public broadcaster, has gained the rights to telecast the sixth edition of the professional field hockey league in India, the Hockey India League (HIL), which is set to begin on December 28, 2024.
This year’s edition is noteworthy since it includes the maiden season of the Women’s Hockey India League as well as the highly anticipated men’s tournament.
Doordarshan, known for its tradition of supporting Indian sports, will broadcast the thrilling action of HIL to millions of spectators throughout the country. The league will have eight men’s teams and four women’s teams participating in Rourkela and Ranchi, showcasing outstanding talent from India and around the world.
Notably, the inclusion of the women’s league demonstrates Hockey India’s commitment to expanding gender inclusiveness in sports and promoting women’s hockey on a large scale.
Navneet Sehgal, Chairman, Prasar Bharati, said, “Prasar Bharati is privileged to partner with the Hockey India League, a platform that celebrates our national sports and aligns people across different categories. Through our comprehensive coverage, we aim to bring the electrifying spirit of hockey, including the historic debut of Women HIL, to viewers everywhere, bridging the urban and rural divide and amplifying the league’s impact.”
Gaurav Dwivedi, CEO, Prasar Bharati, said, “With two back-to-back medals in the Tokyo and Paris Olympics, Indian sports lovers are confident that the golden era of Indian hockey is being brought back. Doordarshan as the public broadcaster is looking forward to contributing to this broader vision through this partnership. The idea is to elevate hockey production and broadcast to global sporting standards. The sports lovers across the world can now watch the Indian Hockey League, both men and women on DD Sports and Waves- the recently launched OTT platform of Prasar Bharati. Stay tuned for the broadcast starting December 28, 2024.”
Hockey India League (HIL) Governing Committee Chairperson Dr Dilip Tirkey, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Doordarshan as the official broadcaster of the Hockey India League. This year is particularly special with the launch of the Women’s HIL, a landmark step in promoting women’s hockey. Doordarshan’s unparalleled reach and commitment to sports perfectly align with our vision of taking hockey to every corner of the nation. Together, we aim to inspire millions and elevate the HIL to unprecedented heights.”
Hockey India League (HIL) Governing Committee Member Bhola Nath Singh, commented, “Hockey is more than just a sport for us – it’s a symbol of our unity and pride. The addition of the Women’s HIL this season is a giant leap forward in ensuring equality and recognition for women athletes. With Doordarshan as our partner, we’re ready to present a spectacular season of HIL. ‘Hockey connects us, and this partnership strengthens that bond’.”
Fans around the country can now watch live telecasts of all HIL matches on Doordarshan, providing hockey fans with easy access across the entire nation.
In an unprecedented move, Doordarshan’s collaboration with Hockey India has expanded to include all National Championships. DD will now broadcast all Hockey India National Championships and tournaments in India.