Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann inaugurated the fourth edition of ‘Khedan Vatan Punjab Diyan 2026’ at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium in Bathinda, launching one of the state’s biggest grassroots sporting initiatives. This year, nearly 10 lakh players aged 14 to over 70 are expected to participate across 39 sports and four para-sports, with competitions scheduled to conclude in Patiala on November 29.
A total of ₹12.50 crore in prize money has been announced, with cash awards for veteran players being introduced for the first time. The event also highlighted Punjab’s sporting and cultural spirit, with performances by popular Punjabi singers Gurdas Maan and Kulwinder Billa. The state government said the initiative aims to channel young people’s energy towards sports, fitness and positive activities while strengthening Punjab’s position in Indian sports.
Under the programme, 3,148 rural sports grounds are being developed, along with thousands of gyms across the state. The government has also announced financial support for athletes preparing for major international competitions and said it is working to build a stronger grassroots sports ecosystem. సీఎం Mann said the long-term vision is to develop Punjab into a major sporting powerhouse and produce more Olympic medallists in the years ahead.
