SAS Nagar, May 5: Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has launched 250 newly constructed sports grounds equipped with modern amenities and professional coaching staff. Speaking at the inauguration in Mohali, the Chief Minister asserted that these ‘Pendu Khed Maidans’ represent a revolutionary step in the state’s “Yudh Nashean Virudh” campaign.
The facilities include fenced boundaries, six-lane running tracks, and specialized sprinkler systems for turf maintenance. To ensure long-term sustainability, the government is forming Village Sports and Fitness Committees tasked with the upkeep of the grounds and equipment.
“Our objective is to keep youth away from drugs and nurture athletes capable of competing at national and international levels,” CM Mann declared. He stated that the presence of high-capacity lighting and wheelchair-accessible infrastructure ensures these grounds are inclusive and usable at all hours.
The Chief Minister noted that the state’s improved financial management allowed for these multi-crore developments. He affirmed that while previous administrations claimed the treasury was empty, the current government is funding expansive rural projects from the same resources.
Highlighting recent successes, CM Mann pointed to the distribution of ₹1 crore rewards to Olympic bronze medalists and the provision of government jobs to elite athletes. He stated that the ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Dian’ program has already engaged 5 lakh players, creating a robust pipeline for future international representation.
“For the first time, Punjab has been given the opportunity to host the Asian Hockey Championship trophy,” CM Mann said. He maintained that hosting such events, alongside the distribution of free sports kits and the appointment of dedicated volleyball and football coaches, will firmly place Punjab on the global sports map.
During the event, the Chief Minister interacted with local athletes and joined a group of female players on the volleyball court. He maintained that the government’s focus remains on fostering a sense of confidence and inclusion among rural youth through direct engagement and high-quality infrastructure.
