Padma Shri Awardee Savita Punia Sets Gold Medal Target For Women's Hockey World Cup

Indian women's hockey goalkeeper Savita Punia expressed pride and gratitude after being selected for the Padma Shri, while also setting her sights on a bigger sporting achievement — helping India win a gold medal at the upcoming Women's FIH Hockey World Cup. The experienced goalkeeper reflected on her journey from a shy young girl with limited opportunities to one of the country's most celebrated hockey players as she prepared to receive the prestigious civilian honour at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

Speaking ahead of the Padma Awards ceremony, Savita described the recognition as a deeply emotional moment for both herself and her family. She recalled the challenges she faced in her early years and said there was a time when even stepping outside her home felt intimidating. Hockey, she said, once appeared to be an impossible dream, making her visit to Rashtrapati Bhavan as a Padma Shri awardee all the more special and memorable.

The veteran goalkeeper also highlighted the importance of the FIH Pro League in India's preparations for major international tournaments. According to Savita, competing regularly against the world's strongest teams provides invaluable experience and helps players understand the standards required at the highest level. She believes the competition serves as the ideal platform for India's women's team to fine-tune its strategies ahead of the World Cup.

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Looking ahead to the Women's FIH Hockey World Cup, Savita expressed confidence in India's prospects. She noted that the team has been placed in a favourable group and is approaching the tournament with belief and ambition. While India has previously celebrated podium finishes and strong performances on the global stage, the goalkeeper stressed that the team's objective this time is to challenge for the top prize rather than simply aim for a medal.

Savita's comments reflect the growing confidence within Indian women's hockey following several years of steady progress at international events. The team has established itself as a competitive force against leading nations and continues to build on performances that have elevated the profile of women's hockey in the country. The experienced goalkeeper remains one of the key figures in that transformation and has played a vital role in many of India's recent successes.

The Padma Awards 2026 are being presented by President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Alongside Savita Punia, several distinguished personalities from sports and other fields are being honoured, including former Indian cricket captain Rohit Sharma with the Padma Shri and tennis legend Vijay Amritraj with the Padma Bhushan. For Savita, however, the focus now shifts from individual recognition to the collective goal of leading India toward World Cup glory.

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