Hockey India congratulates Savita Punia on Padmashree award!

Hockey India congratulated veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia on being awarded the Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian award, by President Draupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Celebrating the achievement, Hockey India described Savita as a “true icon” of the Indian game and said the honor rightly recognizes her immense contribution to Indian hockey over more than a decade. Hockey India wrote on social media platform ‘X’, “Padma Shri for a true icon.

Indian women’s hockey legend Savita received Padma Shri from Honorable President Draupadi Murmu for her outstanding contribution to Indian sports. This is a huge honor for a player who has guarded India’s goal post for more than a decade, and inspired millions with his sheer talent, courage and leadership.”

Commenting on this great honour, an emotional Savita told ‘IANS’ that this award is a matter of great pride not only for her but also for her family and teammates, who stood by her in this journey.

Savita said, “I feel very good because this is a huge award in itself. When I started playing hockey, I never thought that my journey would be so long and that I would get such a big individual honour. It is a big thing for me, my family and my team.”

Talking about the challenges he faced during his career, he credited his family for helping him overcome difficult times. He further said, “There were many situations when I felt I had to stop playing.

However, due to the support of my family, I continued my hockey journey. Today my family is with me, and everyone is very happy. Being a girl from a middle-class family, it feels very special to get so much support from my parents.”

Savita said that her journey will serve as an inspiration for young girls across the country. “It sets a good example for everyone that if Savita can do it, our girls can do it too. It feels great,” she said.

If you are in any field, you should have passion, dedication and patience. Today’s generation wants quick results, but in sports you have to face many challenges and struggles. Injuries are a big part of the game. There is no shortcut to success. You have to be patient and work hard.”

One of the most successful goalkeepers in Indian hockey history, Savita made her senior international debut at the age of 20 and has since earned her place among the best goalkeepers in the world. In 2025, she became the second Indian goalkeeper after PR Sreejesh to complete 300 international caps, which shows her longevity and excellent performance at the highest level.