The Indian women’s hockey team beat China 1-0 to win gold at the Asian Games 2026 in Aichi Nagoya on Friday.

This is the women’s team’s first gold medal in the continental event in 44 years, with its last Asiad gold coming in the 1982 Games.

HI president Dilip Tirkey announced a reward of Rs. 10 Lakh for players and Rs. 5 Lakh for the support staff as federation incentives for the historic result.

“A golden achievement built on dedication, teamwork and determination. Heartiest Congratulations, Champions,” Tirkey wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

Meanwhile, HI secretary general Bhola Nath Singh and the federation’s official social media account announced a marginally higher sum of Rs. 11 Lakh per player and Rs. 5.5 Lakh for each support staff member.

“It was a stupendous performance from the Indian women’s team,” Bhola Nath said to PTI.

“They showed guts and resilience to hold their one-goal advantage against the reigning Olympics silver medallist and world No. 4 China to create history after 44 years. Hockey India is awarding them with cash rewards for their achievements,” Bhola Nath added.

Tirkey, in a video statement later, then clarified that the reward amount had indeed been increased due to the magnitude of the achievement of the side.

“Afte 24 years, India has won gold in women’s hockey. They last won in the 1982 edition. Today, they beat China, in what was a brilliant performance, to clinch gold. I want to congratulate every single player and staff member of the Indian women’s hockey team. Earlier, Hockey India had announced a cash reward of Rs. 10 Lakh for each player. But after seeing their performance, we have increased that by Rs. 1 Lakh. I thank Odisha Government and the Sports Ministry for their support. Many congratulations to the team for securing a spot in the 2028 LA Olympics as well,” Tirkey said.

Published on Oct 02, 2026