Dr. Narinder Dhruv Batra’s election as the president of the International Hockey Federation (FIH) in 2016 was a landmark moment for Indian sports, especially hockey. As the first Indian to lead the FIH, his appointment represented a significant milestone, highlighting India’s growing influence in the global sports community.
Batra’s tenure as the head of Hockey India prior to his FIH presidency was marked by numerous efforts to revitalize and promote the sport domestically. His leadership saw initiatives aimed at improving the infrastructure, increasing player development opportunities, and enhancing the profile of Indian hockey internationally.
Under his guidance, the FIH focused on expanding the reach and appeal of hockey worldwide, promoting new formats like the Hockey Pro League, and working towards the sport’s inclusion in various global events. Batra’s presidency was not only a personal achievement but also a source of pride for India, reflecting the country’s rich hockey legacy and its aspirations to regain prominence on the world stage.
