Chandigarh: In a significant move to strengthen the sports culture in Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann held a detailed discussion with the media today about the state government’s ambitious plans. Emphasizing the importance of youth engagement and heritage, the government has introduced a new sports policy along with a record-breaking budget aimed at promoting athletics across the state.
As part of these initiatives, Punjab will host the Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament for the first time. Officials believe this prestigious event will ignite new passion and enthusiasm for hockey among children, providing them a platform to showcase their talent.
The government’s flagship program, ‘Khedan Vatan Punjab Diyan’, has successfully connected millions of young people with various sports activities. Under this initiative, sports grounds and gyms are being developed across the state, and sports kits are being distributed to encourage participation. Players’ dietary allowances have been doubled, and there has been a significant increase in the number of trained coaches to nurture talent at all levels.
ਅੱਜ ਚੰਡੀਗੜ੍ਹ ਵਿਖੇ ਸੂਬੇ ਵਿੱਚ ਖੇਡ ਕਲਚਰ ਨੂੰ ਮਜ਼ਬੂਤ ਕਰਨ ਲਈ ਸਰਕਾਰ ਦੇ ਵੱਡੇ ਉਪਰਾਲਿਆਂ ਬਾਰੇ ਮੀਡੀਆ ਨਾਲ ਗੱਲਬਾਤ ਕੀਤੀ। ਪੰਜਾਬ ਦੀ ਖੇਡ ਵਿਰਾਸਤ ਨੂੰ ਅੱਗੇ ਵਧਾਉਂਦੇ ਹੋਏ ਨਵੀਂ ਖੇਡ ਨੀਤੀ ਲਾਗੂ ਕੀਤੀ ਗਈ ਅਤੇ ₹1791 ਕਰੋੜ ਦਾ ਰਿਕਾਰਡ ਤੋੜ ਖੇਡ ਬਜਟ ਪੇਸ਼ ਕੀਤਾ।
ਪਹਿਲੀ ਵਾਰ ਪੰਜਾਬ ਏਸ਼ੀਅਨ ਚੈਂਪੀਅਨਜ਼ ਟਰਾਫੀ ਹਾਕੀ ਟੂਰਨਾਮੈਂਟ ਦੀ… pic.twitter.com/EMjruIWH82
— Bhagwant Mann (@BhagwantMann) March 24, 2026
CM Mann Highlights Punjab Sports Development as Key to Empowering Youth and Building Champions
Chief Minister Mann stressed that the ultimate goal of these efforts is to position Punjab as a leader in national and international sports, keeping youth engaged and away from harmful habits. “Our focus is on Punjab sports development, ensuring that every young athlete has the infrastructure, training, and support needed to excel,” he said.
Experts and sports enthusiasts have welcomed these initiatives, noting that the focus on grassroots programs and professional coaching marks a major step forward in Punjab sports development. With a structured approach to nurturing talent, Punjab aims to become a model state for sports culture in India.
Also read : CM Bhagwant Singh Mann Honors Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh, Lays Foundation for Hussainiwala Heritage Complex
With initiatives like hosting international tournaments, doubling player support, and expanding sports infrastructure, the government is setting a strong foundation for Punjab sports development. The vision is clear: empower youth, promote healthy competition, and create champions who can make the state proud on global platforms.
The ongoing programs reflect a comprehensive strategy for Punjab sports development, combining professional training, financial incentives, and widespread grassroots engagement. The government hopes that such measures will transform the sporting landscape in Punjab and inspire the next generation of athletes.