Sangrur, July 1: Future Olympic and world-class athletes from Punjab are set to receive elite-level training following the inauguration of a modern, Olympic-specification swimming pool in Sangrur. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann unveiled the ₹9.50 crore facility on Tuesday, declaring it a cornerstone of the state’s revived sporting culture and an essential tool for training future international medalists.
The newly built complex features a 50×21-metre pool constructed using laminated PVC and stainless-steel panels, making it one of the most technologically advanced swimming facilities in the nation. Designed with European-standard water filtration systems, the stadium also boasts dedicated coaching rooms, separate athletic shower facilities, a conditioning gymnasium, and a mini-pool catering to children under seven years of age.
“To revive Punjab’s sporting culture, our government has increased the sports budget from ₹200 crore to ₹1,790 crore,” Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann stated. He affirmed that under the revised policy, athletes will be provided with advance funds for training, while international medal winners will receive cash rewards of ₹1 crore for gold, ₹75 lakh for silver, and ₹50 lakh for bronze.
The Chief Minister asserted that building robust sports infrastructure is the most effective way to harness the boundless energy of youth and keep them aligned toward excellence. He declared that the administration is working on a long-term vision to build 3,100 stadiums across the state, creating a widespread network of recreational and professional athletic grounds.
In an appeal to parents across Sangrur and neighbouring areas, the Chief Minister urged families to actively encourage their children to pursue sports. He maintained that upcoming initiatives, including the launch of the Punjab Premier League and the Punjab Hockey League, will give local talent a direct platform to reach international prominence. He also stated that hosting the Asian Champions Trophy in Mohali and Jalandhar later this year will firmly establish Punjab as a premier sports hub.
