New Delhi: President A P J Abdul Kalam today (Apr 30, 2004) congratulated the Indian hockey team on winning the Junior Asia Cup title defeating hosts Pakistan.

In his message, the President said "my hearty congratulations to you for winning the Junior Asia Cup crown in Karachi yesterday.

"This victory will give you further motivation to defend the Junior World Cup hockey title next year. The nation is proud of your achievement," the message said.

India claimed their maiden Junior Asia Cup title when they beat Pakistan 5-2 in the final in Karachi yesterday.