India U-18 Hockey Asia Cup 2026: Mandaviya Honours Medal-winning Teams In Japan

Hon'ble Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya honoured India’s under-18 men’s and women’s hockey teams at the Sports Authority of India head office in New Delhi on Monday. He praised their Asia Cup 2026 results in Japan and presented cash awards.

The Indian U-18 men’s team, led by captain Ketan Kushwaha, won the U-18 Asia Cup 2026 title in Kakamigahara. They defeated hosts Japan 4-1 in the final on Friday. The Union Sports Minister rewarded the team with a cheque worth INR 61.5 lakh for their success.

The Indian U-18 women’s team, captained by Sweety Kujur, claimed bronze at the same event. They beat Korea 3-0 in the bronze medal match. Dr. Mandaviya presented the women’s squad with a cheque of INR 21 lakh as a further boost to their efforts.

Key details from the event are below in brief form.

Minister’s message and individual awards

Dr. Mandaviya praised the squads, saying: “I would like to congratulate both the teams for the hard work they have put in for bringing laurels for the country. The entire nation is proud of you. I would like to tell you that this is just the start.”

Continuing his advice, he said: “There is no alternative for hard work. Someone who has scored 13 goals should think of scoring 15 or more goals. Someone who has stopped 10 goals should aim for not letting the opponents even score one.”

He added: “Whether you study or play sports, there should be total commitment. Keep performing to the best of your abilities and making your parents and well-wishers happy, that should be your aim.” He said the Government of India aims to make India a sports superpower.

The Sports Minister also honoured top performers. He felicitated best scorers Ashish Tani Purti and Nousheen Naz from the men’s and women’s teams. He also recognised best goalkeeper Ayush Rajak, who saved 10 goals during the tournament, and praised their impact in the Asia Cup.

Former India captains Rani Rampal and Sardara Singh were also felicitated. Rani coaches the Indian U-18 women’s team, while Sardara guides the U-18 men’s side. Dr. Mandaviya acknowledged their work as coaches during the Under-18 Asia Cup campaign in Japan.