Around 10 lakh players expected to participate; 38 sports disciplines and four para-sports included, with competitions to be held across all 153 blocks

Chandigarh, 01 September (H.S.): Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday directed officials to ensure foolproof arrangements for the fourth season of ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan – 2026’, which is scheduled to begin on September 5 at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium in Bathinda.

Chairing a meeting to review preparations for the state’s biggest sporting event, the Chief Minister said around 10 lakh players are expected to participate this year. The games will feature 38 sports disciplines, along with four para-sports - Athletics, Powerlifting, Badminton and Wheelchair Basketball - providing a wider platform for athletes across the state.

Mann said the games are aimed at identifying, promoting and nurturing sporting talent from villages, towns and cities across Punjab. He highlighted the inclusive nature of the event, noting that participants from different generations have taken part in previous editions, including members of the same family from three generations.

According to the Chief Minister, players from nine age groups, ranging from 14 years to above 70 years, will compete in this season. The competitions will be conducted at the block, district and state levels, giving athletes opportunities to progress through different stages.

For the first time, Tennis Ball Cricket for both boys and girls has been included as a demonstration sport. The move is aimed at providing another opportunity for young players to showcase their abilities.

The registration process for the games is currently underway and has been made free of cost. For the first time, the Sports Department has introduced a QR-code-based registration facility, allowing players to register from anywhere.

Players can register through the Punjab Sports Portal by accessing sports.punjab.gov.in. The Chief Minister said the process has been designed to be quick and simple, taking around 15 seconds with minimal steps.

Mann appealed to youngsters and sports enthusiasts across Punjab to participate in large numbers. He said the government wants to use the games to prepare children and youth for competitions at national and international levels.

The games will be organised across all 153 blocks of Punjab, while district-level competitions will take place in all 23 districts. State-level competitions will be conducted in 16 districts.

The fourth season will conclude on November 29 in Patiala. Attractive cash prizes have been announced for medal winners at the state level. Gold medal winners will receive ₹10,000, silver medal winners ₹7,000, and bronze medal winners ₹5,000.

During the review meeting, Mann directed officials to make comprehensive arrangements so that participants do not face any difficulties during the sporting events. He stressed the need for proper arrangements to ensure the smooth and hassle-free conduct of the tournament.

The Chief Minister said the government is continuously working to connect the youth of Punjab with sports and restore the state’s position as a leading sporting state.

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.

Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH