SSC CHSL 2025 PYQ — Question 85

SSC CHSL - 15 Nov 2025 - Shift 3 • General Awareness • Q85

In India, the first hockey club came up in Calcutta in ______.

Show answer & explanation

Correct answer: C

Explanation

The correct answer is Option 3: 1885-86.
Explanation:

  • The history of hockey in India is both ancient and illustrious. Modern hockey was introduced in India during the era of British rule.
  • First Hockey Club: India's first hockey club was established in 1885-86 in Calcutta (now Kolkata).
  • Expansion: Soon thereafter, hockey clubs began to emerge in other centers as well, such as Bombay (Mumbai) and Punjab.
  • First Tournament: India's oldest hockey tournament, the Beighton Cup, commenced in 1895—also in Calcutta. The Aga Khan Cup was introduced in Mumbai shortly thereafter.

Other Significant Milestones in Indian Hockey (for Revision):

Event / Achievement Year Location / Details
First Hockey Club 1885–86 Calcutta
Beighton Cup (First Tournament) 1895 Calcutta
Establishment of IHF 1925 Gwalior (Indian Hockey Federation)
First Olympic Gold 1928 Amsterdam Olympics
6 Consecutive Olympic Gold Medals 1928–1956 India's dominance in Olympic hockey
Major Dhyan Chand's Birthday 29 August Celebrated as National Sports Day


Additional Information (from an Exam Perspective):

  • Olympic History: To date, India has won a total of 8 gold medals in hockey at the Olympic Games.
  • World Cup: India has won the Hockey World Cup only once—in 1975 (Kuala Lumpur)—under the captaincy of Ajit Pal Singh.
  • Asian Games 2023: The Indian men's hockey team qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympics by winning the gold medal.

Important Questions for Upcoming Exams:
Question: Which is India's oldest hockey tournament?
Answer: The Beighton Cup.
Question: Who is known as the 'Wizard of Hockey'? Answer: Major Dhyan Chand.
Question: When and where was the Indian Hockey Federation (IHF) established?
Answer: In 1925, in Gwalior.