Punjab Government's 'Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan' reclaims Punjab’s status as leader in sports

Chandigarh News: Sports are deeply ingrained in Punjabi culture, and the government led by Bhagwant Singh Mann is actively working to promote this passion. The ongoing block-level competitions as part of Season 3 of "Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan" exemplify these efforts.

The primary goal of these tournaments is to reclaim Punjab’s status as a leader in sports. This initiative has grown significantly, with new sports such as cycling, baseball, and taekwondo being added this year. Winners will share a total prize pool of Rs 9 crore. By engaging in sports, youth can steer clear of issues like substance abuse and establish themselves as positive contributors to society.

Last year, the Horse Riding event was among the five new sports events to be included in the 'Khedan Wattan Punjabi Diyan' for the first time. Back then, the then Sports Minister Meet Hayer had said that the goal of the Punjab Government was to make Punjab number one in sports and to revive the rich legacy of the state to produce great players from the holy land of five rivers with a firm commitment to provide every facility to the budding players of Punjab by nurturing them in the upcoming sports.

Recently, the Punjab team made headlines at the 63rd National Open Athletics Championship in Bengaluru, winning a gold medal in the mixed relay race of 4x400 meters for the first time. The team, composed of Jashandeep Singh, Jagmeet Singh, Twinkle Chaudhary, and Gup Kaur, attributed their success to the improved conditions provided by a new synthetic track, which has enhanced their training and minimized injuries.

Moreover, many players from Punjab were integral to the Indian team that secured medals at the Paris Olympic Games. In recognition of their achievements, the Punjab government has announced a reward of Rs 1 crore for each Punjabi athlete on the team. The government has also honored sportspersons with significant contributions to their fields by appointing them to prestigious positions.

Indian hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh has also acknowledged the efforts to promote sports in Punjab. After his return from the Olympic Games, he paid his respects at the Darbar Sahib in Amritsar and mentioned the completion of a hockey stadium in his village. He remarked, "Great efforts are being made towards sports. Young athletes will be inspired to see the love and respect we receive."