Bhagwant Mann gave ₹32.05 crore to 1,070 players in Punjab. He also announced a sports budget of ₹1,763 crore and new stadiums.
Bhagwant Mann gave ₹32 crore to players, made major sports announcements
A grand atmosphere was seen in the sports world today in Chandigarh. Applause erupted as players were honored on stage. Bhagwant Mann gave prize money of ₹32.05 crore to 1,070 players. Subsequently, several major sports announcements were also made.
The 87 players who received the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award were a special attraction. Additionally, international players were also present at the event.
Bhagwant Mann said that Punjab is now emerging as a sports powerhouse. Therefore, emphasis is being placed on sports infrastructure.
During the event, family members of the players were also seen emotional. On the other hand, new enthusiasm was observed among the youth.
Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award and honoring players
Bhagwant Mann gave special recognition to the players. Particularly, international medal winners remained in the spotlight.
Under the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award, 87 players were honored. Each player was given ₹5 lakh and a memento.
Indian women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur was also honored. Additionally, Harleen Deol and Amanjot Kaur were also in the news.
Shooting players Amanpreet Singh and Neeraj Kumar were given large prize amounts. Meanwhile, many players became emotional.
Players described the government’s decision as historic. As a result, a new discussion has started in the sports field.
Punjab sports budget and rural grounds announcement
Bhagwant Mann announced a sports budget of ₹1,763 crore for 2026-27. This budget is being called historic.
3,148 rural sports grounds will be developed in Punjab. An announcement was made to spend ₹1,300 crore for this.
The government’s main objective is to nurture new talent in rural areas. Additionally, gyms will be established in 6,000 villages.
It was also announced that 17,000 sports kits will be distributed. After that, enthusiasm among the youth increased further.
The Punjab government has also created a separate cadre for sports science. Meanwhile, a new recruitment process is also underway.
Jobs and direct financial assistance to players
Bhagwant Mann stated that 9 players have been given government jobs. This includes positions like PCS and DSP.
₹8.61 crore was directly sent to the accounts of 220 players for preparation. It is said that this has provided major relief to the players.
The government has also launched a new sports portal. Through this, players will receive equipment and assistance.
Special encouragement will be given to sports like shooting, archery, and kayaking. Additionally, connections will be made with corporate sponsors.
A new opportunity is emerging for players. As a result, the sports environment in Punjab is strengthening.
Special focus on Olympic and international players
Bhagwant Mann gave special recognition to Olympic players. Particularly, hockey players remained in the spotlight.
Harmanpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, and Hardik Singh were honored on stage. Additionally, para-athletes were also in focus.
Para powerlifter Parmjeet Kumar was given ₹55 lakh. On the other hand, Wushu player Kushal Kumar received ₹25 lakh.
Bhagwant Mann said that players are the pride of the nation. Therefore, the government will continuously stand with them.
Punjab’s hockey tradition was also specially mentioned. Because many Olympic players have come from Punjab.
What will change next in Punjab?
Bhagwant Mann said that now assistance will be given before preparation, not after victory. So players will be able to prepare more strongly.
The foundation stone for a new youth center was also laid in Chandigarh. It will have hostel facilities for 200 youth.
The Punjab government is now preparing a sports structure from villages to the international level. As a result, more players may emerge in the coming years.
After this decision by Bhagwant Mann, discussions
