Doordarshan and Hockey India Sign a Three-year Deal for the Hockey India Legue

Doordarshan (DD) and Hockey India have inked a historic three-year deal that would guarantee the Hockey India League (HIL) enjoys extensive national coverage. Talks to broaden the league's audience are also in progress with private broadcasters.

Speaking about the partnership, Hockey India Secretary General and HIL Governing Committee Member Bhola Nath Singh said he was confident in the league's broadcasting approach. "Our goal of making hockey India ka khel is demonstrated by our collaboration with Doordarshan. We are making sure that no fan is left behind with DD's unmatched reach," he said.

Singh reassured that commercial broadcasters are also hopeful about the league's future, even if Doordarshan was the first to partner with HIL. 

"Our approach places a high priority on interaction and coverage. To serve a range of audiences, we will have numerous streaming platforms in addition to two linear broadcast partners." Singh stated that more partners' specifics would be revealed shortly.

In order to give viewers an immersive and visually captivating experience, the league pledges to provide top-notch production quality, knowledgeable commentary, and in-depth research.

Beyond broadcasting revenues, the HIL's financial viability is a major concern for stakeholders. Singh listed creative collaborations, a strong sponsorship model, and a focus on both online and offline fan interaction as essential elements of the league's sustainability.

"Both corporate sponsors and hockey fans are very interested in the sport's comeback, particularly in light of India's back-to-back Olympic medal victories. The league's long-term success is ensured by this momentum and careful planning," he continued.

In order to strengthen the league's business base, Hockey India is anticipated to reveal its title sponsor soon.

After a seven-year break, Hockey India formally reintroduced the HIL in October. The men's hockey league will return for the 2024–25 season, and a separate women's hockey league will make its debut.

Eight men's teams and six women's teams will compete in the HIL beginning in 2024–2025. The women's league will operate alongside the men's competition.

Well-known sports organizations have previously purchased teams in both leagues.

Early investors include JSW Sports, SG Sports and Entertainment (owned by former Indian tennis player Mahesh Bhupathi), and Navoyam Sports Ventures.

The men's teams are owned by Charles Group in Chennai, Yadu Sports in Lucknow, JSW Sports in Punjab, Shrachi Sports in West Bengal, SG Sports and Entertainment in Delhi, Vedanta in Odisha, Resolute Sports in Hyderabad, and Ranchi in Navoyam Sports Ventures.

The women's teams are owned by JSW Sports in Haryana, Shrachi Sports in West Bengal, SG Sports and Entertainment in Delhi, and Navoyam Sports Ventures in Odisha. After the ongoing legal actions are resolved, two more women's franchises will be revealed.

After the ongoing legal actions are resolved, two more women's franchises will be revealed.

In keeping with the league's goal of advancing both men's and women's hockey in India, the franchise cost for a men's club has been set at Rs 7 crore annually, while the charge for a women's team would be Rs 3 crore annually.