Bathinda: The fourth edition of Punjab’s flagship sporting event, ‘Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan-2026’, began in Bathinda, marking the start of a multi-month tournament that will cover all districts before culminating in Patiala this November. Inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann alongside sports personalities and dignitaries, the ceremony featured the ceremonial torch arrival, cultural performances, and a traditional flag march led by Asian Games medalists. State officials stated that state-level gold medalists will receive ₹10,000, silver medalists ₹7,000, and bronze medalists ₹5,000, with official grading certificates awarded to eligible winners under age 40 to support government employment opportunities under the sports quota.
The administration declared that past editions have demonstrated steady growth, moving from 3.5 lakh participants in 2022 to an estimated 10 lakh participants across towns and villages this year. The Chief Minister declared that sports serve as a vital tool in encouraging healthy lifestyles and community bondings across generations. Highlighting recent policy achievements, representatives noted that financial support for major tournament preparations—including ₹15 lakh for Olympic preparation—continues to be disbursed directly to athletes. The leadership affirmed that Punjab will also host international events like the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy later this year in Jalandhar and Mohali, further solidifying the state’s position on the sporting map.
