In a major push to revitalize sports and engage the youth of the state, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has announced a sweeping overhaul of the state's sporting landscape. The ambitious plan, reviewed on Wednesday, involves the construction of a massive number of stadiums and the introduction of modern facilities across villages.
Massive Infrastructure Push: Stadiums and Gyms
Chief Minister Mann has directed officials to ensure the completion of 3,100 stadiums across Punjab by June 2026. This colossal project is estimated to cost Rs 1,350 crore. In line with the state's New Sports Policy 2023, these stadiums will be built in villages and will be equipped with comprehensive facilities.
"Rs 1,350 crore will be spent on these stadiums with fences, gates, jogging tracks, levelled playgrounds, trees, volleyball courts, stores, and others," stated CM Mann. He emphasized that the work must be completed within the stipulated timeframe without compromising on quality.
Alongside the stadiums, the plan includes setting up nearly 3,000 "ultra-modern" gyms at various locations. The government's clear objective, as per Mann's statement, is to channel the energy of Punjab's youth into productive and disciplined pursuits, steering them away from the drug menace.
Sports Kits, Portal, and Youth Activities
To directly support budding athletes, the state government will distribute 17,000 sports kits worth Rs 50 crore. Each kit will contain equipment for multiple sports, including:
- Volleyball and football (three balls and two nets each)
- Cricket (two bats, wickets, and six tennis balls)
Officials have been tasked with distributing 5,600 of these kits in villages by March 31, 2026.
Further modernizing the sports ecosystem, the government is set to launch a comprehensive sports portal. This digital platform will offer a one-stop solution for players and enthusiasts, providing services like player registry, online gradation, direct benefit transfers (DBT), event organization, ground reservation, e-certificates, and pension management.
Adventure Camps and New Yuva Bhawan
Beyond infrastructure, the government plans to actively engage young people through experiential learning. Trekking, adventure, and team activity camps will be organized in the state's nine forest areas, aiming to involve 10,000 youth.
Adding to the institutional framework, a new Yuva Bhawan will be constructed at a cost of Rs 43 crore. This hub is expected to become a central point for youth-related activities and services in the state.
This multi-pronged initiative represents one of the largest state-led investments in grassroots sports infrastructure in recent times. By focusing on rural areas and digital integration, the Punjab government aims to create a sustainable pipeline for sporting talent while offering positive avenues for its young population.
