Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's decision to organize 'Kheda Watan Punjab Deyan' to revive sports culture in Punjab and recognize the talent of sportspersons in the state is finally bearing fruit as the sports department has successfully conducted block level competitions after the inaugural ceremony. Now district level competitions will be held in all districts from 12 to 22 September for which all preparations are complete. It was disclosed by Punjab Sports Minister Gurmeet Singh Meet Hayer through a press communiqué released here today.
Meet Hayer congratulated all the players, sports officials and district administrations for successfully conducting the block level competitions and expressed hope that just as these games have had a good start, there will be a successful conclusion after the district and state level competitions. He said that players from every village and city of Punjab are taking part in these games, which is the main motive of this sports festival.
The minister said that Volleyball, Athletics, Football, Kabaddi (National style), Kho Kho and Wrestling competitions were held at the block level.
Now the winners of these games will participate in district level competitions. Apart from these sports, there are six age groups at the district level of Handball, Softball, Judo, Roller Skating, Gatka, Kick Boxing, Hockey, Netball, Badminton, Basketball, Power Lifting, Lawn Tennis, Wrestling, Swimming, Boxing, Table Tennis and Weightlifting. There will be Under 14, Under 17, Under 21, 21-40 years, 40-50 years and above 50 years. Para sportsmen competitions would also be held. In 41-50 years and above 50 years age group competition of Table Tennis, Lawn Tennis, Badminton, Volleyball and Athletics will be held. Certificates will be awarded to the winners of these categories.
Meet Hayer further informed that the district level winners will be given certificates. After this, the state-level competitions of the district winners will be held from October 10 to 21. A total of Rs. 6 Cr worth prizes will be distributed to the winners at the state level. Rs. 10,000 will be given to the first position winner, Rs. 7,000 for the second and Rs. 5,000 for third place winners.