PATIALA, AUGUST 25 — Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated 509 modern ‘Pendu Khed Maidan’ from Patiala, advancing the state’s completed rural sports ground count to 734. The initiative is intended to build 3,100 sports complexes statewide, offering rural youth access to organized athletics and recreational spaces.
“These Pendu Khed Maidan will make an effective contribution to the ‘Yudh Nashean Virudh’ campaign,” asserted Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann. He maintained that providing high-quality sporting arenas serves to guide young people toward health and personal development.
The latest allocation includes 43 facilities in Ludhiana, 41 in Mansa, 36 in Sangrur, 34 in Patiala, 34 in Bathinda, 33 in Sri Muktsar Sahib, and 32 in Amritsar. The development drive forms part of an overall Rs 1,744 crore commitment to sports infrastructure and athlete development, alongside the construction of 600 rural gyms across the state.
The updated sites feature dedicated zones for traditional and team sports, high-mast illumination for evening play, footlights, boundary fencing, and surrounding green spaces. Equipment packages are customized based on the preferred sports of individual villages.
“Sports were an integral part of Punjab’s proud legacy and rich heritage,” stated the Chief Minister. He affirmed that under the 2023 Sports Policy, cash awards, Maharaja Ranjit Singh Awards, and government job appointments continue to be awarded to decorated national and international athletes.
The state is preparing for major athletic fixtures, including the fourth season of ‘Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan’ in Bathinda, expecting participation from 10 lakh players, as well as upcoming regional cricket and international hockey events.
