Hockey WC:India beat Wales 4-2 but fail to top pool, to play NZ in crossover for place in last-eight
Bhubaneswar, Jan 19: India defeated Wales 4-2 to finish second in Pool D and qualify for the crossover match, where they will take on New Zealand, for a place in the quarter-final of the FIH Men's Hockey World Cup here on Thursday.
India took a 2-0 lead through goals from Shamsher Singh (21st) and Akashdeep Singh (32nd) before Wales stunned the home team with twin strikes in a span of two minutes.
Both the Wales goals came from penalty corners through Gareth Furlong (42nd) and Jacob Draper (44th) as they drew level.
Akashdeep came to India's rescue, scoring a fine field goal in the 45th minute before skipper Harmanpreet Singh converted a penalty corner in the 59th minute.
Both India and England finished with seven points each from three games but the latter topped the pool on account of batter goal difference.
In an earlier Pool D match, England beat Spain 4-0.
While England directly qualified for the quarter-finals by topping the pool, India and Spain will play in the cross-over matches for the other four quarter-final spots.
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Gen Z, Gen Alpha will lead India towards Viksit Bharat, says PM Modi
New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday said that India’s younger generations Gen Z and Gen Alpha will play a decisive role in leading the country towards the goal of Viksit Bharat (Developed India), as the government frames policies with a focus on youth empowerment.
According to a report published by NDTV, addressing the Veer Baal Diwas programme at Bharat Mandapam, the Prime Minister said he places immense faith in the competence and confidence of the youth. “This is the generation that will take India forward. I see their ability and self-belief, and that is why I trust them”.
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Quoting the adage, PM Modi explained that even if a child speaks wisely, it should be accepted, meaning that greatness is not defined by age but by deeds and achievements. He underlined that young people can accomplish tasks that inspire others, and many have already demonstrated this.
However, he stressed that these achievements should be seen only as a beginning, as there is much further to go, with dreams to be taken to the skies.
The Prime Minister said today’s youth are fortunate to grow up in an environment that encourages ambition, unlike earlier times when despair discouraged even dreaming. He remarked that today the country seeks out talent, provides platforms, and aligns the strength of 140 crore citizens with their aspirations.
He highlighted that with the success of Digital India, the youth have the power of the internet and resources for learning, with missions like Startup India for those pursuing science, technology, and entrepreneurship, and Khelo India for those advancing in sports. He also referred to his recent participation in the Sansad Khel Mahotsav as an example of expanding platforms for youth development.
Cautioning against the lure of short-term fame, the Prime Minister urged young people to remain focused and principled. He encouraged them to draw inspiration from great personalities and ensure that their personal success contributes to national progress.
Modi further said platforms like Mera Yuva Bharat aim to connect young people, nurture leadership skills, and provide opportunities across sectors. He stressed that youth are central to every major national effort from space, economy and manufacturing to fintech, sports, skill development, and internships.
On the occasion of the Prakash Purab of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji on 9th January 2022, the Prime Minister had announced that 26th December would be observed as 'Veer Baal Diwas', to commemorate the martyrdom of Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh Ji and Baba Fateh Singh Ji, the sons of Sri Guru Gobind Singh Ji, whose unparalleled sacrifice continues to inspire generations.
