Sports minister promises all help to hockey team for 2016 Olympics

Congratulating the Indian men's hockey team for winning a 'historic' gold at the ongoing Incheon Asian Games, Sports Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that the government will provide every possible help to the team in preparation for the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Sonowal termed the win as historic as India has emotional connect with hockey.

"It is a historic victory and I want to congratulate all the members of Indian hockey team, the coach and whoever has made this possible. We are waiting to receive them with a sense of gratitude and happiness. India has an emotional connect with hockey, so this win is extra special," Sonowal told PTI-Bhasha from Assam.

"Indian hockey has got its rhythm back after 16 years and now we are looking forward for Rio Olympics. My ministry will provide every possible help to make them win in Rio," he said.

He also congratulated all the medal winners including women's 4x400m relay team.

"I would also like to congratulate gold medal winners in women's 4x400 m relay and every medallist. They worked hard to bring laurels for the country," he said.

The minister also expressed satisfaction over India's performance in the Asian Games.

"It is good as per our expectations. Every player has been putting in a lot of hard work and they have given a 100 per cent," he said.