Punjab's​ Big Leap in Sports: The Budget Increased and Dreams Were Expanded by the New Sports Policy

The sports policy that the Punjab Government has recently adopted has overturned the entire sporting scene of the state. The reforms under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann have brought in new opportunities, resources, and recognitions for athletes. The sports budget of the state, which was hardly ₹100 crore till 2022, has shot up to ₹1,000 crore, a very strong indication of Punjab's renewed commitment towards sports.

The new policy assures athletes of the world-class facilities along with the financial support and a government job. Each Olympic participant from the state was provided with ₹15 lakh for the preparation. Based on outstanding performance, seven players have been appointed as DSPs, and four players have been appointed as PCS officers; in total, nine hockey players, one cricketer, and one athlete have got these positions.

As a result of the “Khedan Watan Punjab Dian” initiative, the number of sports participants has skyrocketed to an unprecedented level. While earlier only 20,000-25,000 players used to take part, now more than five lakh young men and women have joined. This indicates the speed at which the sports culture is growing in Punjab.

Chief Minister Mann said he felt proud as four national teams have captains from Punjab and nine Punjabi players have been included in the Indian hockey team, which is evidence of the state's sporting tradition and talent.

The government has promised significant incentives to the medal winners in international events: ₹1 crore to gold, ₹75 lakh to silver, and ₹50 lakh to bronze. These incentives not only raise the morale of the young athletes but also serve as a means to make the sports sector attractive as a career option to ‍‌them.