Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has taken a major step towards strengthening sports facilities at the rural level in Punjab. Recently, from Dedhna village in Patiala, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated more than 509 modern rural playgrounds constructed in various districts of the state. With this, the total number of rural playgrounds dedicated to youth has reached 734. According to the Punjab government, the purpose of these playgrounds is to provide better sports facilities to rural youth and to attract them towards sports by keeping them away from drugs.
Goal to build 3,100 rural playgrounds
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the Punjab government is developing a total of 3,100 modern rural playgrounds across the state. Approximately ₹1,500 crore is being spent on this project. He informed that 255 playgrounds have been dedicated to youth in the first phase, while 509 new playgrounds have been inaugurated in the second phase. In the second phase, playgrounds have been made available in 43 villages in Ludhiana, 41 in Mansa, 36 in Sangrur, 34 each in Bathinda and Patiala, 33 in Sri Muktsar Sahib, and 32 in Amritsar, as well as in other districts.
Football, Cricket, and Volleyball Facilities
Rural playgrounds are being developed keeping in mind local needs and popular sports. Facilities are being provided for football, cricket, volleyball, and other sports. Football goalposts, volleyball poles, children’s swings, and other sports equipment have been installed on the grounds. In villages where cricket is more popular, arrangements have been made to provide cricket kits and other necessary sports equipment.
Youth will also play at night in the area
These playgrounds have been developed to conduct sports activities not only during the day, but also in the evening and night. According to the Punjab government, facilities such as high-mast lights, walking tracks with footlights, and strong mesh fencing are being provided in the grounds. Furthermore, emphasis is being placed on creating a green environment by planting trees around the grounds.
The “Yuddh Nasha Viruddh” Campaign Related to Sports
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that rural sports grounds can play an important role in keeping youth away from drug abuse. The government is emphasizing on spreading the message of “staying away from drugs and engaging in sports” among youth through these facilities.
6,000 Gyms to be Built in Villages
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the Punjab government is also working towards establishing 6,000 rural gyms in villages. 500 of these gyms have already been inaugurated. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the Punjab government has designated 2026 as a year dedicated to sports and athletes. A budget of ₹1,744 crore has been allocated for sports in the state this year. According to the Punjab government, prize money worth ₹135 crore has been distributed to 40,415 athletes since 2022.
Athletes will not face financial difficulties.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann also mentioned financial assistance for athletes’ training and preparation for competitions. According to him, athletes are being provided with ₹1.5 million for Olympic preparation, while up to ₹8 million is being provided for Asian and Commonwealth Games preparation. He also announced that 85 athletes will be honored with the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award and 11 players who have brought glory to Punjab at the national and international level will be appointed as PCS/DSP officers.
Hockey and Cricket to be Played in Jalandhar-Mohali
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann informed that Punjab is hosting the Hockey Asian Champions Trophy for the first time. The matches will be held in Jalandhar and Mohali during October-November. He also announced the organization of a T20 cricket league in Punjab, similar to the IPL. The league is scheduled to be held at the PCA Stadium in Mohali from August 30 to September 13. Several ministers and officials were present on the occasion.