Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has inaugurated more than 509 modern rural sports grounds developed across different districts of the state, in a move aimed at strengthening sports infrastructure at the village level.
The inauguration ceremony was held at Dedhna village in Patiala district. With the latest additions, the total number of rural sports grounds dedicated to young people across Punjab has reached 734, according to the state government.
The Punjab government said the initiative is aimed at providing better sports facilities to rural youth and encouraging them to take up sports while helping keep them away from drugs.
Target to Develop 3,100 Rural Sports Grounds
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said the Punjab government is working to develop a total of 3,100 modern rural sports grounds across the state at an estimated cost of around Rs 1,500 crore.
According to the government, 255 sports grounds had been dedicated to youth during the first phase, while 509 new grounds were inaugurated during the second phase.
The second phase includes sports grounds in several districts, including 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, along with villages in other districts.
Facilities for Football, Cricket and Volleyball
The rural sports grounds are being developed according to local requirements and the popularity of different sports in individual villages.
The facilities include provisions for football, cricket and volleyball, along with other sporting activities. Football goalposts, volleyball poles, children’s play equipment and other sports infrastructure are being installed at the grounds.
In villages where cricket is particularly popular, arrangements are also being made to provide cricket kits and other essential sports equipment.
Facilities for Evening and Night Games
The newly developed grounds are also being equipped to support sports activities during the evening and at night. According to the Punjab government, facilities include high-mast lighting, walking tracks with footlights and durable fencing around the grounds. Plantation and landscaping around the sports facilities are also being promoted to create a greener environment.
Sports Initiative Linked to Anti-Drug Campaign
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said rural sports grounds can play an important role in encouraging young people to stay away from drugs and participate in sports.
The government is seeking to use these facilities to promote the message of staying away from drugs and choosing sports and physical activity among rural youth, in connection with its ‘Yudh Nashe Virudh’ campaign.
Plan to Establish 6,000 Rural Gyms
The Chief Minister also said the Punjab government is working towards establishing 6,000 rural gyms across villages in the state. According to Mann, 500 rural gyms have already been inaugurated as part of the initiative.
Government Highlights Sports Budget and Support for Athletes
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said the Punjab government has been promoting 2026 as a year dedicated to sports and sportspersons. According to the state government, a budget allocation of Rs 1,744 crore has been made for sports during the year. The government further stated that since 2022, a total of Rs 135 crore in prize money has been awarded to 40,415 sportspersons.
Financial Assistance for Athletes’ Preparation
Mann also highlighted financial assistance being provided to athletes for training and preparation for major competitions. According to him, athletes preparing for the Olympic Games are being provided assistance of up to Rs 15 lakh, while those preparing for the Asian Games and Commonwealth Games can receive assistance of up to Rs 8 lakh.
The Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann also said that 85 athletes have been honoured with the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award, while 11 sportspersons who have brought recognition to Punjab at the national and international levels have been appointed to PCS/DSP positions, according to the government.
Major Hockey and Cricket Events in Jalandhar and Mohali
Mann also highlighted upcoming major sporting events in Punjab. He said the state is hosting the Hockey Asian Champions Trophy for the first time, with matches scheduled to be held in Jalandhar and Mohali during October-November.
The Chief Minister also announced the organisation of a T20 cricket league on the lines of the IPL in Punjab. According to the announcement, the league is scheduled to be held from August 30 to September 13 at the PCA Stadium in Mohali.
Cabinet Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sondh, Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh and other senior officials and representatives were present on the occasion.