What’s new this year?
The tournament now follows a three-division format with promotion and relegation.
How many teams are playing?
30 teams are divided into three divisions:
Division A (12 teams) – Compete for the championship.
Division B (10 teams) – Fight for promotion to A.
Division C (8 teams) – Try to move up to B.
Bottom teams in each division will be relegated for the next edition.
When does the tournament start?
April 4-15, 2025, at Major Dhyan Chand Hockey Stadium, Jhansi.
Division B and C matches start on April 4.
Division A matches start on April 8.
The final for Division A is on April 15.
How does promotion and relegation work?
Top two teams in Division B move to Division A next season.
Top two teams in Division C move to Division B next season.
Bottom two teams in Division A drop to Division B.
Bottom two teams in Division B drop to Division C.
How are matches structured?
Division A has four groups of three teams each.
Top two teams from each group advance to the quarterfinals on April 12.
Semifinals will be played on April 13.
The final and third-place match are on April 15.
Divisions B and C follow a league format, with standings determining promotions and relegations.
How are points awarded?
Win: 3 points
Draw: 1 point
Loss: 0 points
Who are the top teams in Division A?
Defending champion Odisha and runner-up Haryana.
Other top teams include Punjab, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Bengal, and Tamil Nadu.
