Jalandhar, August 21, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The torch rally for the fourth season of ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan 2026’ received a warm welcome in Jalandhar on Friday, with Punjab Horticulture and Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat calling for greater participation of youngsters in sports.
Deputy Commissioner Varjeet Walia, District Planning Committee Chairman Amritpal Singh and other dignitaries welcomed the ‘Mashal March’ as it reached Jalandhar during its statewide journey ahead of the sporting event.
Addressing the gathering, Bhagat said the Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, had allocated Rs 700 crore for sports, describing the investment as a major push to strengthen sports infrastructure at the grassroots level and revive Punjab’s sporting legacy.
He said the government was working to take better sports facilities to villages and provide young people with opportunities to develop their talent. The construction of model playgrounds across the state, he added, was aimed at creating a stronger sporting ecosystem at the village level.
Bhagat also linked sports promotion with the government’s campaign against drugs, saying the ‘Yudh Nashian Virudh’ initiative was focused on engaging youngsters in constructive and healthy activities.
He said the government was simultaneously working to tackle drug abuse and encourage youth participation in sports, which could help channelise their energy, foster discipline and contribute to a healthier society.
The torch reception also featured an athletic display by budding players, who showcased their talent and added enthusiasm to the event.
Additional Deputy Commissioner Amaninder Kaur Brar, SDM Shubhi Angra and District Sports Officer Gupreet Singh were among those present, along with sports enthusiasts and other officials.
Walia said the block-level competitions under ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan 2026-27’ Season-4 would be held from September 3 to 15, followed by district-level competitions from September 20 to 30. State-level competitions are scheduled from November 10 to 28.
He said the state government was making efforts to encourage maximum participation by players and children and urged youngsters to register in large numbers.
Players can register through the Punjab Sports Department’s online participation portal using identity and age-proof documents, including Aadhaar cards and age certificates.
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