Hockey India praised veteran goalkeeper Savita Punia for receiving the Padma Shri, India’s fourth-highest civilian award, from President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Describing Savita as a true icon of Indian sport, Hockey India highlighted her significant contributions to Indian hockey spanning over a decade. Savita expressed immense pride in receiving the award, emphasizing the support of her family and teammates throughout her journey.
The emotional Savita acknowledged the prestigious honor, stating that it was a significant achievement for her, her family, and her team. Despite facing challenges during her career, Savita credited her family for being her pillar of strength in overcoming difficult moments. She emphasized the importance of passion, dedication, and patience for success, encouraging young girls across the nation to pursue their dreams.
Renowned as one of the most accomplished goalkeepers in Indian hockey history, Savita made her senior international debut at the age of 20 and has since become one of the world’s finest custodians. Her leadership, consistency, and composure have played a pivotal role in India’s success on the global stage. Savita’s remarkable journey includes significant milestones such as completing 300 international caps and leading India to notable achievements in various international tournaments.
