Jalandhar, Oct 7 — Reaffirming his government’s commitment to transform Punjab into the Sports Capital of India, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Monday said that the state’s glorious legacy in sports will soon be matched by world-class infrastructure and opportunities for its youth.
Addressing the grand finale of the Punjab Hockey League 2025 at Surjit Hockey Stadium, Jalandhar, the Chief Minister announced that international-level cricket and hockey stadiums will soon be built in Amritsar and Jalandhar. “The day is not far when Punjab will lead the entire nation in sports,” Mann declared, adding that his government is determined to make the state a global centre for sporting excellence.
Calling the Punjab Hockey League a historic milestone, he noted that it is India’s first junior hockey league and also the tournament with the highest prize money. “This event has united three generations of hockey players on one platform. It shows that the spirit of sports still flows strongly through Punjab’s veins,” he said.
The Chief Minister highlighted Punjab’s exceptional contribution to national sports, reminding the audience that 9 out of 18 players in India’s Asia Cup-winning hockey team were from Punjab. The same trend, he said, was visible in the last two Olympic Games, where Punjabi players played a key role in India’s medal wins. “This proves that Jalandhar truly deserves its title as the ‘Sports Capital of India’,” he said.
Looking ahead, Mann announced that the government will develop over 3,000 sports stadiums across Punjab in the coming years. Stressing that sports are a powerful weapon against drug abuse, he said, “It is heartening to see that our youth are returning to the playgrounds. Sports are not just about winning medals—they are about saving lives.”
The Chief Minister added that Burlton Park is being developed into a modern sports centre, while Amritsar will soon see the establishment of a world-class sports hub. He also said Punjab is ready to reclaim its traditional leadership in sports equipment manufacturing, as Jalandhar has long been a supplier to international sporting events.
On the occasion, Cabinet Minister Aman Arora announced a first-of-its-kind project combining transport and sports infrastructure. The new bus stand in Sunam, he said, features a multi-purpose sports hall on the first floor, while the ground floor serves passengers and traders. The facility will promote games such as kabaddi, judo, wrestling, and karate, serving as a model for community-based sports development.
Mann also underscored his government’s commitment to honouring athletes. Several players, including nine hockey stars, have been appointed as DSPs and PCS officers, while Olympians representing India in international tournaments have been publicly honoured for their achievements.
Concluding his address, the Chief Minister said, “Just as our government has made Punjab a leader in governance, health, and education, we will now make it the nation’s top sports hub. Every village will become a nursery of sporting excellence.”
