NEW DELHI, Oct. 2 (Xinhua) -- Indians celebrate with joy on Friday as the country's women's hockey team won the gold medal by defeating defending champion China 1-0 at the ongoing Aichi-Nagoya Games, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating the team in a social media post.
In a post on X, PM Modi stated, "A very special moment for Indian Hockey! The people of India are rejoicing in the success of the Women's Hockey Team, who bring home the coveted Gold at the Asian Games and that too after over 4 decades. This is the result of outstanding skills and teamwork. Their determination is very inspiring as well. My best wishes to the team for their upcoming endeavors. May this success contribute to Hockey's popularity across the nation."
It has been 44 years since the Indian women's hockey team last won gold at the Asian Games, and the victory also secured its place at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
India's Lalremsiami Hmarzote struck the lone goal for her country in the 10th minute of the first quarter.
So far, India has won a total of 16 gold medals, ranking fifth in the overall medal tally. Television reports showed family members of Team India's players celebrating the historic achievement by dancing and exchanging sweets. ■
