Patiala, August 16, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Sunday welcomed the torch of the ‘Khedan Vatan Punjab Diyan’ sports event on its arrival in Patiala and called upon people, particularly youngsters, to participate actively in the games to strengthen Punjab’s sports culture.
Dr Balbir Singh said the Punjab government was taking special measures to promote sports across the state. He announced that the next edition of ‘Khedan Vatan Punjab Diyan’ would be formally inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann in Bathinda on September 5.
He said the sporting programme would feature seven disciplines at the block level, 28 at the district level and 38 at the state level. People from all age groups would be eligible to participate, allowing generations ranging from children to grandparents to take part in the competitions.
The minister appealed to Punjabis to participate enthusiastically and help make the government’s initiative successful. He said greater participation in sports was essential to fulfilling Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann’s vision of building a ‘Rangla Punjab’.
Urging young people to stay away from drugs, Dr Balbir Singh encouraged them to channel their energy into sports and contribute to creating a healthier society.
He also highlighted opportunities being provided by the Punjab government to encourage sportspersons, including avenues for direct recruitment.
The minister urged youngsters to participate in sports, work hard and strive for medals while using their sporting talent to create employment opportunities for themselves.
He described ‘Khedan Vatan Punjab Diyan’ as more than a sporting competition, saying it provides a platform to connect young people with sports, keep them away from drugs and give them an opportunity to bring recognition to Punjab and the country through their sporting achievements.
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