Bihar prepares for 2030 FIH women's hockey world cup in Rajgir

Bihar has stepped up preparations to host the 2030 FIH Women's Hockey World Cup in Rajgir, with Sports Minister Shreyasi Singh stating that the state government's proposal for the tournament has been accepted.

The proposal was discussed during the 2026 Asian Games in Japan. Singh, Bihar Sports Department Secretary Deepak Anand and Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Singh were present during the discussions.

According to Patna Press, the state sees the proposed tournament as an opportunity to strengthen Bihar's presence in international sport and provide greater exposure to its emerging women hockey players.

Singh said the arrival of leading women hockey players from around the world would allow young athletes in Bihar to watch international-level competition closely and draw inspiration from the players.

She added that hosting the tournament could help create a stronger environment for promoting women's hockey and identifying emerging talent across the state.

“Our dream is that the world's daughters come to Bihar and Bihar's daughters reach the world,” Singh said, outlining the state's ambition to connect local athletes with the international sporting community.

Rajgir's international hockey record

Rajgir has hosted two major international hockey tournaments in recent years, helping establish the city as a venue for continental competition.

The city hosted the Women's Asian Champions Trophy from November 11 to 20, 2024. The tournament featured India, China, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia and Thailand.

India defeated China 1-0 in the final to claim the title.

Rajgir subsequently hosted the Men's Asia Cup from August 29 to September 7, 2025. India won the tournament, adding to the city's record of hosting international hockey competitions.

These events have increased the visibility of Bihar's sporting infrastructure and provided experience in staging competitions involving international teams.

Focus on grassroots development

The proposed 2030 World Cup is being positioned by the state as an opportunity to promote women's hockey and inspire young players.

Singh said exposure to the world's leading athletes could help young hockey players set new goals and aspire to compete at international level.

The tournament would also bring international attention to Rajgir and Bihar's sports facilities. However, the final hosting arrangements and formal confirmation of the tournament's venue by the International Hockey Federation have not been detailed in the report.

Bihar's latest initiative builds on its recent hosting experience, with the state seeking to connect international sporting events with grassroots participation and the development of women athletes.