Punjab to be a hub of international hockey, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann issues strict instructions after reviewing preparations

July 5, 2026

Punjab is set to once again be at the center of the international sports world with the prestigious Asian Champions Trophy to be held later this year. The state government has begun preparations on a war footing to host the world’s top hockey teams. Reviewing the arrangements at a high-level meeting, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann directed officials to complete all infrastructure projects and other necessary work before September. The Chief Minister clarified that no stone will be left unturned for the successful organization of this prestigious tournament, and Punjab will provide world-class facilities to visiting players, officials, and sports fans. This event will not only give a new identity to Punjab’s sports culture but will also showcase the state’s hospitality and organizational capabilities on a global stage.

The Chief Minister directed that a management committee be formed, comprising experts, players, and other stakeholders, to ensure timely completion of all arrangements. He also approved the formation of a high-powered committee of senior officials to regularly monitor the progress of ongoing works in Jalandhar and Mohali.

Emphasizing the importance of world-class facilities, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said, “A management committee comprising experts, players, and other stakeholders should be formed to implement all arrangements in a timely manner. Ensure that all work related to this prestigious tournament is completed before September, ensuring that nothing is left unturned to ensure the grand success of the event.”

Reviewing the infrastructure requirements, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann directed that the stadiums in Jalandhar and Mohali be upgraded with the latest facilities as per international standards. Assuring the Indian Hockey Federation of full support, he said that the Punjab Government is fully committed to ensuring the successful organization of the first tournament of this caliber in the state’s history.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab has always produced hockey players, and hosting such an international tournament on our soil will further inspire our youth to participate in the sport. Reiterating the Punjab Government’s commitment to the event, the Chief Minister said that all necessary arrangements related to security, logistics, and player facilities will be made to ensure the smooth conduct of the championship.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated that the Punjab government is fully committed to providing security and every possible facility to the players participating in this world-class competition. He further stated, “Six of the best-performing hockey teams will participate in the Asian Champions Trophy. For the first time, Punjab has been given the opportunity to host this international tournament, which is a major achievement in the field of sports.”

Describing this event as a historic moment for Punjab, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that it is a matter of pride that the state has been selected to host this championship, which will greatly promote hockey and sports culture across Punjab. He said, “It is a matter of great joy and satisfaction that Punjab will host this major international sporting event. It will greatly help in restoring the past glory of sports in the state.”

Highlighting Punjab’s invaluable contribution to Indian hockey, he further said, “Despite the strong participation of Punjabis in hockey for decades, Punjab has never hosted a major international hockey tournament. Having this championship in the state is like a dream come true.” Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Ravi Bhagat, Punjab Hockey President Nitin Kohli and other senior officials were also present during the meeting.