Indian hockey legend and Padma Shri awardee Dhanraj Pillay praised Central Halka Incharge and Hockey India Vice President Nitin Kohli during a special meeting in Jalandhar today. The interaction revolved around future strategies for sports development, youth empowerment, and social responsibility.
Calling Nitin Kohli a “ray of hope for the youth,” Pillay lauded his grassroots efforts to uplift hockey in Punjab, especially in Jalandhar, and said such leadership could bring significant change if extended into public policy and governance.
“Nitin Kohli hasn’t confined sports to competition. He’s turned it into a tool of transformation for youth. I see him as a leader who can translate sporting experience into impactful policymaking,” said Pillay.
The former Indian hockey captain emphasized the need for people with real-world experience like Kohli to play active roles in politics and public life. He stated that Punjab has abundant sports talent, but it needs guidance, infrastructure, and platforms — areas where Kohli has already made a mark.
Vision for Jalandhar as a Sports Model City
Pillay added that under Nitin Kohli’s leadership, Jalandhar could become a model city for sports development. He also highlighted Kohli’s significant role in nurturing young hockey players who have gone on to represent India at national and international levels.
“His focus has always been on providing players with facilities, coaching, and opportunities. That mindset is exactly what our sports ecosystem needs,” he said.
Pillay stressed the importance of integrating sports with politics and social service, saying sports must evolve into a platform for character-building and community development.
Joining Pillay at the event were former international players Arjun Halappa and Jeevan Mahadev, both of whom echoed similar appreciation for Kohli’s work and expressed hope that he would soon play a larger role in public life.