Indian Hockey Stars Champion the #WhiteCard Campaign for Peace and Inclusion

Celebrating the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace

On April 6, the world observes the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, and Indian hockey players have once again shown their commitment to the global #WhiteCard Campaign. This initiative underscores the significance of sports as a vital instrument for fostering peace, inclusion, and development.

The Impact of Sport on Peace and Development

Globally, countless children are growing up in precarious situations, facing limited access to education and growth opportunities. Currently, more than 250 million children are out of school, missing out on not just a basic right but also crucial life skills essential for their development.

In light of these challenges, Peace and Sport emphasizes the role of sports as a strategic means for promoting peace, inclusion, and child development. When nurtured in a supportive environment, sports can cultivate vital traits such as empathy, cooperation, and resilience, which are essential for creating more harmonious societies.

Voices of Indian Hockey Players Supporting the Initiative

Navneet, a forward for the Indian Women's Hockey Team and recent recipient of the Balbir Singh Sr. Award for Player of the Year 2025, stated, "Sports have the ability to unite individuals and dismantle barriers. Through the #WhiteCard campaign, we aim to showcase how sports can foster respect, inclusion, and peace within communities."

Nikki Pradhan, a defender for the Indian Women's Hockey Team who has recently achieved 200 international caps, expressed, "Every child deserves the opportunity to learn, grow, and play in a secure environment. Sports can instill strong values and pave the way for a brighter future, and we are honored to promote this message through the #WhiteCard campaign."

Midfielder Manpreet Singh added, "Engaging in sports brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds and fosters mutual understanding. By supporting the #WhiteCard campaign, we demonstrate how sports can help create a more positive and inclusive society."