Chandigarh, 29 April (H.S.): In a major initiative aimed at promoting sports culture and steering youth away from the menace of drugs, the Sports Cell of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Chandigarh, on wednesday announced the launch of “Chandigarh Khelo Games 2026.” The announcement was made during a press conference held at the party’s state office in Sector-33.
The press conference was attended by several prominent BJP leaders, including State President Jitender Pal Malhotra, State General Secretaries Ramveer Bhatti and Sanjeev Rana, State Media Incharge Ravi Rawat, Sports Cell Convener Prabhjeet Singh Lamba, Co-Convener Harish Kakkar, and State Secretary Meenakshi Thakur.
Addressing the media, Sports Cell Convener Prabhjeet Singh Lamba and State President Jitender Pal Malhotra said that the initiative aims to provide a constructive platform for young athletes, particularly Under-19 players, to showcase their talent and pursue excellence in sports. They emphasized that engaging youth in sports activities not only promotes physical fitness but also builds mental strength, discipline, and a sense of purpose.
The “Chandigarh Khelo Games 2026” will feature competitions across 11 sports disciplines, including Football, Basketball, Kabaddi, Rugby, Netball, Volleyball, Judo, Karate, Table Tennis, and Track & Field events such as 100m, 200m, and 400m races, along with Long Jump and High Jump. The event is scheduled to take place from May 11 to May 17, 2026, at Panjab University, Chandigarh.
Highlighting the response so far, Lamba informed that more than 700 players have already registered for the event, indicating strong enthusiasm among the youth. To encourage maximum participation, registration has been kept completely free of cost. The last date for registration is May 9, 2026.
He further stated that the primary objective of the games is to divert young minds from drug abuse by involving them in productive and healthy activities. “Sports can play a crucial role in shaping character and guiding youth towards a positive and disciplined lifestyle,” he added.
On the occasion, the BJP Sports Cell also felicitated the Chandigarh team that secured a bronze medal in the 38th Junior Netball National Under-19 Championship held in Muzaffarnagar. The players were honored at the party office by presenting them with tracksuits as a token of appreciation. Congratulating the team, State President Jitender Pal Malhotra termed their achievement a proud moment for the city. He also announced that the Sports Department, UT Chandigarh, will award a cash prize of ₹1 lakh to each player, which is expected to further motivate them.
Hindusthan Samachar / GURSHARAN SINGH
