Sports have long been an integral part of Punjab’s identity. From hockey grounds to traditional wrestling akharas, the state has produced generations of accomplished athletes. In recent years, the Punjab Government has stepped up efforts to revive this sporting culture through a revamped sports policy, expanded infrastructure and direct financial and employment support for players.
The focus, officials say, is not limited to winning medals but on giving the youth of Punjab a healthier, more disciplined and secure future.
Punjab’s new sports policy
The state government has rolled out a comprehensive sports policy aimed at spotting talent at an early stage and making sports a viable career option for young people. The policy places strong emphasis on grassroots training, professional coaching and financial assistance to athletes.
Key features include support for equipment, diet and travel, along with cash incentives and government jobs for achievers. The initiative has encouraged many young players to take sports more seriously, particularly those from rural backgrounds.
Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan: beyond competition
A major highlight of the policy is Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan, a state-level sporting initiative that has evolved into a mass movement. The competitions provide a platform for players from villages, schools and small towns to showcase their talent.
Multiple editions of the event have already been held, with participation across disciplines such as athletics, football, hockey, kabaddi, volleyball and wrestling. The government has distributed prize money worth crores of rupees, which players say has boosted motivation and confidence.
“Earlier, we played only for passion. Now there is hope that good performance will be rewarded,” said a young participant.
Government jobs for athletes
To ensure long-term security, the Punjab Government has offered government jobs to hundreds of sportspersons who have excelled at state, national and international levels. The move is aimed at reducing financial pressure that often forces athletes to abandon their sporting careers.
Several beneficiaries continue to train and compete while working in government departments. “My family feels secure now, and I can focus on my sport without constant financial stress,” said one such athlete.
Financial backing for training
Apart from jobs, the government provides direct financial assistance for coaching, nutrition, equipment and travel to tournaments. This support has been particularly beneficial for players from economically weaker sections who earlier lacked access to professional training facilities.
Honouring Olympic achievers
Punjab has also recognised its Olympic achievers, especially members of India’s medal-winning hockey teams. Olympic medalists from the state were awarded substantial cash incentives, a gesture that officials say reflects Punjab’s respect for sporting excellence.
Stadiums to engage youth
One of the most ambitious initiatives under the policy is the plan to build 13,000 modern stadiums across Punjab to promote sports at the local level and steer youth away from drug abuse. In the first phase, construction work on over 3,000 stadiums has already begun.
These facilities are expected to provide safe and accessible spaces for regular practice and organised sports activities.
Chief Minister’s vision
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has repeatedly described sports as a key tool in tackling drug addiction and unemployment in the state. He has said that keeping youth engaged on playgrounds is essential for building a healthier society.
“When young people are involved in sports, they stay away from drugs. That is why we are investing in stadiums, jobs and athlete support,” Mann has said.
Looking ahead
Through its sports policy, tournaments, infrastructure expansion and financial backing, Punjab is attempting to rebuild a strong sporting ecosystem. The effort, officials say, is not just about producing champions, but about shaping a fitter, more confident and disciplined generation.