Tag: Arjuna Award

Sports

Harmanpreet Singh – 250 Games for India: A Modern Hockey Legend

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Asia Cup 2025 | India 4–1 Malaysia

Indian hockey star Harmanpreet Singh etched his name deeper into history by completing his 250th international appearance as India secured a convincing 4–1 victory over Malaysia in the Asia Cup. Known for his drag-flick supremacy and leadership on the field, Harmanpreet’s journey from a promising youngster to one of the world’s most feared defenders is nothing short of inspirational.

A Record-Breaking Career

  • 216 International Goals since 2015 – Harmanpreet is among the most prolific scorers in modern hockey, especially from penalty corners.
  • Back-to-Back Olympic Bronze Medals – A cornerstone of India’s resurgence, he played a pivotal role in India’s podium finishes at Tokyo 2020 and Paris 2024.
  • Arjuna Award & Khel Ratna Winner – Recognition at the highest level for his contribution to Indian sport.

The Journey to 250 Matches

Hailing from Amritsar, Punjab, Harmanpreet burst onto the scene in 2015. His natural flair for drag-flicking, combined with calm defensive maturity, quickly earned him a permanent spot in the national team.

  • Debut Year: 2015
  • First Major Breakthrough: Junior World Cup 2016 (where India were crowned champions)
  • Consistency: In less than a decade, he became India’s go-to penalty corner specialist, feared by opposition goalkeepers worldwide.

Impact on Indian Hockey

Harmanpreet’s contribution extends beyond goals:

  • As captain and senior figure, he has mentored younger players and ensured India’s aggressive, modern style of hockey flourishes.
  • His drag-flick ability has often turned tight games into victories.
  • His defensive strength and game reading provide balance to India’s attacking flair.

Why This Milestone Matters

Reaching 250 matches in international hockey is a rare feat, demanding supreme fitness, mental strength, and consistency. For Harmanpreet, it also symbolizes:

  • A decade of excellence.
  • A vital role in India’s hockey revival on the world stage.
  • His place among India’s greatest modern hockey stars, alongside legends who carried the sport through generations.

Looking Ahead

At just 29, Harmanpreet Singh still has years of hockey ahead of him. With the 2026 Men’s Hockey World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics on the horizon, fans can expect many more goals and milestones.

For now, India celebrates a player who has already cemented his legacy — and continues to inspire millions with every drag-flick.

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Bank of Baroda recognizes Arjuna Award Recipient Pranav Soorma for His Sporting Achievements

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Mumbai, 4th February, 2025: Bank of Baroda (Bank), one of India’s leading public sector banks, recognised Mr. Pranav Soorma, an Officer of the Bank and recipient of the prestigious Arjuna Award 2024.

At the Paris Paralympic Games 2024, Mr. Soorma won a Silver Medal for India in the Men’s F51 Club Throw event. He was presented with the Arjuna Award 2024 on January 17, 2025 for his outstanding achievements in Para Athletics and for bringing glory to the nation.

Shri Debadatta Chand, Managing Director & CEO, Bank of Baroda said, “Pranav’s remarkable accomplishments are a result of his relentless dedication and perseverance, and as an organisation we stand by him as he continues to make the country proud. Our sports quota initiative is designed to support and empower talented individuals by providing them with the necessary institutional backing to excel in their chosen field. We remain committed to fostering a culture that nurtures talented sportspeople like Pranav and encourages excellence in all spheres of life.”

Shri Chand honoured Mr. Soorma in recognition of his accomplishments by granting an out of turn promotion as Manager, a cash reward of Rupees Ten Lakh and acknowledging as a ‘Sportsperson’ within the Bank.

About Bank of Baroda
Founded on 20th July, 1908 by Sir Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad III, Bank of Baroda is one of the leading commercial banks in India. At 63.97% stake, it is majorly owned by the Government of India. The Bank serves its global customer base of ~165 million through over 70,000 touch points spread across 17 countries in five continents and through its various digital banking platforms, which provide all banking products and services in a seamless and hassle-free manner. The Bank’s vision matches the aspirations of its diverse clientele base and seeks to instil a sense of trust and security in all their dealings with the Bank.