Mizoram hockey star and Olympian Lalremsiami Hmar has been selected for the prestigious Arjuna Award 2025, becoming the first sportsperson from the state to receive one of India’s highest national sporting honours. The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced the selection on August 18, 2026.
The recognition marks a historic milestone for Mizoram and adds to a career in which Lalremsiami has established herself as one of the leading players in Indian women’s hockey. Chief Minister Lalduhoma congratulated Lalremsiami, describing the announcement as a matter of “great pride and immense joy” for the state.
Lalduhoma said Lalremsiami had brought immense pride to Mizoram through her dedication, perseverance and contribution to Indian hockey, adding that her achievement would inspire the state’s youth. Excise & Narcotics Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar also congratulated the hockey player, calling the award a proud moment for both Lalremsiami and Mizoram.
Lalremsiami, popularly known as Siami, hails from Kolasib in Mizoram and was introduced to hockey as a child while playing near her home. She went on to play for India at the Olympics and has represented the country in numerous international tournaments, including the Women’s World Cups, the Commonwealth Games, and the Asian Games.
Lalremsiami has received international recognition, winning the FIH Rising Star of the Year award in 2019. Her journey has also been marked by personal adversity, including the loss of her father during the 2019 FIH Women’s Series Finals in Hiroshima, Japan. Despite this, she chose to remain with the Indian team and continued playing, helping India win the tournament.
The Arjuna Award is presented by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to sportspersons who have demonstrated consistent high-level performance at the international level, along with qualities of leadership, sportsmanship and discipline. The award includes a statuette, certificate, ceremonial dress and a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh under the current scheme.
Lalremsiami’s selection carries particular significance for Mizoram, as she is set to become the first sportsperson from the state to receive the Arjuna Award.
