Chandigarh, January 10: In a grand event symbolizing Punjab’s commitment to sports, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann officially marked the end of the second edition of the state’s largest sporting event, Khedan Watan Punjab Dian. Over 4.5 lakh players across the state participated in the competition, showcasing Punjab’s dynamic sports culture.
In a significant gesture, the Chief Minister digitally transferred cash prizes totaling Rs 8.30 crore directly into the bank accounts of approximately 11,000 athletes. These funds were awarded to those who achieved Gold, Silver, and Bronze medals in the state-level competitions, rewarding excellence in sports and fostering a spirit of healthy competition. Congratulating all the winners, CM Mann expressed his hopes that these athletes would continue to make Punjab proud at both national and international sporting arenas.
Highlighting the event’s growth, CM Mann mentioned that this year’s edition included 35 competitions spanning eight age groups, making the games inclusive for athletes from under 14 to above 65 years old. Additionally, five new sports were introduced: Rugby, Cycling, Horse Riding, Wushu, and Shooting Volleyball. These additions reflect Punjab’s commitment to broadening the scope of sports and providing athletes with diverse avenues to excel.
The prize structure, designed to encourage participants, awarded Rs 10,000 for Gold, Rs 7,000 for Silver, and Rs 5,000 for Bronze medals. This structured incentive system aims to boost morale among the athletes and recognize their hard work, especially those who train with dedication in challenging circumstances.
Chief Minister Mann emphasized the importance of Khedan Watan Punjab Dian as a significant step towards fostering sports talent in the state. According to him, the games serve as an excellent platform to highlight young athletes’ potential while helping the state government recognize their strengths and areas for improvement. This, he said, would help in developing these players further for participation in national and international events.
This commitment to sports by the Punjab government reflects a larger vision for the state’s progress and the prosperity of its people. CM Mann reiterated that promoting sports is not only about winning medals but also about empowering individuals and communities, which can ultimately contribute to a healthier, more prosperous Punjab. He assured the public that the government would continue to create opportunities for the state’s athletes, ensuring that Punjab remains a prominent name in the sports arena.
Through Khedan Watan Punjab Dian, the Punjab government has taken a proactive approach to invest in its athletes, reflecting an understanding that sports play a crucial role in the holistic development of society. As the games continue to expand each year, they not only support individual athletes but also contribute to the growth of sports culture in Punjab, helping the state shine on a global platform.
