Hoshiarpur, August 23, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan-2026 Torch Relay received a grand welcome at Mehtiana in Hoshiarpur district on Sunday as Chabbewal MLA Dr Ishank Kumar, sportspersons, students and local residents gathered to receive the ceremonial torch.
The relay entered the district from Phagwara and was welcomed at Mehtiana amid dhol beats, cheers and a shower of flower petals. Dr Ishank Kumar received the torch and said the fourth edition of Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan would begin from Bathinda on September 5 and conclude in Patiala on November 29.
Dr Ishank Kumar said the state government’s mega sports initiative would help revive Punjab’s sporting culture at the grassroots level by providing budding athletes opportunities to compete and develop their talent.
He said more than 10 lakh participants, from 14-year-olds to those above 70, were expected to take part in the fourth edition. Competitions will be organised in 38 sports disciplines along with four para-sports disciplines.
The MLA said the Punjab Government under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann had allocated Rs 1,794 crore for sports development, with a focus on strengthening sports infrastructure and facilities across the state. He said 3,148 sports grounds and 6,000 village gyms were also planned to promote sporting activities.
Dr Ishank Kumar urged players and sports enthusiasts across Punjab to register and participate in the competitions at block, district and state levels. The games will cover all 153 blocks and 23 districts, while state-level competitions will be organised across 16 districts.
He said the initiative would provide athletes with opportunities to showcase their talent and gain recognition at district, national and international levels.
Under the prize structure, state-level gold medal winners will receive Rs 10,000, silver medallists Rs 7,000 and bronze medallists Rs 5,000.
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