Hockey Star Lalremsiami Makes History, Becomes Mizoram’s First Arjuna Awardee
Kolkata, [Date of Publication] – In a momentous announcement that has sent ripples of pride through the sporting world, particularly in the northeastern state of Mizoram, Indian women’s hockey international Lalremsiami has been selected for the prestigious Arjuna Award. This recognition, unveiled by the sports ministry on Tuesday as part of the 2025 honours, marks a historic milestone as Lalremsiami becomes the first athlete from the football-mad state to receive this esteemed national sports award.
The 26-year-old forward has been a cornerstone of the national team since her senior debut in 2017, consistently delivering pivotal performances in major tournaments. Her contributions were instrumental in India’s remarkable fourth-place finish at the Tokyo Olympics under the guidance of coach Sjoerd Marijne. Lalremsiami’s exceptional talent was further acknowledged in 2019 when she was crowned the FIH Rising Star of the Year, solidifying her reputation as one of the brightest talents in women’s hockey.
Her recent form has been nothing short of spectacular. Just last month, at the Nations Cup in June, Lalremsiami delivered a "Player of the Match" performance in the final, leading India to a thrilling victory over New Zealand. As the Indian team currently navigates its World Cup campaign, hopes are high that Siami will continue her impressive run, playing a crucial role in the team’s pursuit of glory on the global stage.
Among those celebrating this historic achievement, few are as delighted as Miss B’tei, Lalremsiami’s long-time coach from her formative years at the SAI Training Centre in Thenzawl. "I identified her potential early on and always believed she would one day represent the country," Coach B’tei shared with The Times of India. "She is an incredibly hardworking and dedicated athlete, and I am immensely proud of her performance on such a grand world stage."
Coach B’tei further emphasized the broader impact of this award, stating, "Now, she will become an inspiration for the younger generation. Seeing Siami receive this award will instill in children the belief that they too can achieve great things. It will provide them with tremendous encouragement and determination to pursue their dreams."
Indeed, Lalremsiami’s ascent to the national team has already sparked a noticeable shift in Mizoram, a state traditionally dominated by football. Her success has inspired numerous youngsters to take up hockey, with several subsequently earning places in National Centres of Excellence (NCOEs) across the country in recent years. This burgeoning interest is evident in the recent inclusion of Lalthantluangi, who became the third player from Mizoram to join the women’s national team and is currently a part of India’s World Cup squad.
Mizoram’s Sports Minister, Lalnghinglova Hmar, expressed optimism that even brighter days are ahead for the sport in the state following Lalremsiami’s groundbreaking honour. "This recognition will undoubtedly inspire many Mizo boys and girls to take up sport, dream big, and aim for greater achievements," Minister Hmar told The Times of India. "Siami is a role model both on and off the pitch, and an inspiration to countless young Mizos. Heartiest congratulations to Lalremsiami and the entire hockey fraternity of Mizoram. This is a proud moment for all of us."
The Mizoram government has already identified hockey as a priority sport under its "Empowering Mizoram Sports" scheme. Minister Hmar believes that Lalremsiami’s historic achievement will further accelerate the promotion and development of the game within the state.
For now, however, the celebrations for Lalremsiami will have to be put on hold. With India’s World Cup campaign currently underway, her focus remains firmly on the field. There is perhaps nothing she would like more than to make her indelible mark on the biggest stage, further cementing her legacy as a pioneer and an inspiration.
