Chandigarh, September 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday reviewed preparations for the fourth season of ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan-2026’ and directed officials to ensure foolproof arrangements for the state’s major sporting event, which will begin on September 5 at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium in Bathinda.
Mann said around 10 lakh players are expected to participate in this year’s games, which will feature 38 sports disciplines and four para-sports. The competitions will be conducted at block, district and state levels, providing an opportunity to identify and nurture sporting talent from across Punjab.
The Chief Minister said the games would bring together participants from nine age groups, ranging from 14 years to above 70 years. He noted that previous editions had also witnessed participation by three generations of the same family.
The four para-sports included this year are Athletics, Powerlifting, Badminton and Wheelchair Basketball. For the first time, Tennis Ball Cricket for both boys and girls has also been included as a demonstration sport.
Mann said registration for the games was free and had been simplified through a QR-code-based facility, introduced for the first time by the Sports Department. Players can register through the Punjab Sports Portal at sports.punjab.gov.in using the QR-enabled participation facility. He said the registration process takes around 15 seconds and can be completed from anywhere.
The games will be held across all 153 blocks and 23 districts of Punjab, while state-level competitions will take place in 16 districts. The tournament will conclude in Patiala on November 29.
Mann said the government was seeking to connect Punjab’s youth with sports and prepare promising athletes for national and international competitions. He appealed to young people and sports enthusiasts to participate in large numbers.
Attractive cash prizes have been announced for state-level medal winners. Gold medallists will receive ₹10,000, silver medallists ₹7,000 and bronze medallists ₹5,000.
The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure smooth, hassle-free arrangements and said all necessary facilities should be put in place for participating athletes.
Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr. Ravi Bhagat, Secretary Sports Varun Roojam, Special Secretary Information and Public Relations Puneet Goyal and other senior officials attended the meeting.
FOLLOW NOW
