Samana: The New Stadiums to Train Future Olympians initiative received a major boost on Thursday. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann laid the foundation stone of a modern stadium in Samana. At the same time, he announced that the state will build 3,100 stadiums and rural sports grounds across Punjab.
The government wants to promote sports among young people. Moreover, it aims to keep youth away from drug abuse. The new facilities will also prepare athletes for national and international competitions.
Modern Stadium to Rise in Samana
The Samana stadium will cost ₹10.35 crore. The government will build it on nine acres of Panchayat land. According to the Chief Minister, the project will offer world-class sports facilities.
The stadium will feature an eight-lane, 400-meter synthetic athletics track. Athletes can use it for 100-meter, 200-meter, and 400-meter races. In addition, the stadium will host many other track events.
The project will also include facilities for shot put, hammer throw, discus throw, long jump, and high jump. As a result, local athletes will get better training opportunities close to home.
Sports to Help Fight Drug Abuse
Chief Minister Mann called sports one of the strongest weapons against drug addiction. He said young people who actively play sports stay focused on their goals. Therefore, they are less likely to fall into drug abuse.
He added that sports help young people build discipline and confidence. Besides that, they encourage a healthy lifestyle. The government believes this approach will strengthen Punjab’s future.
₹1,250 Crore Investment Across Punjab
The New Stadiums to Train Future Olympians project includes 3,100 rural sports grounds. The government will invest ₹1,250 crore in this ambitious plan. Furthermore, every ground will include modern sports facilities.
The initiative supports the state’s “Yudh Nashian Virudh” campaign. Consequently, more young people will have safe places to train and compete.
Thousands of Athletes Already Benefiting
The Chief Minister said the government has promoted sports for the last three years. Around five lakh athletes participated in competitions during 2024–25. Meanwhile, the state spent ₹97.3 crore on sports activities during the past three years.
Mann also highlighted the revival of traditional rural games. For example, bullock cart races returned after legal reforms. These events have once again attracted large crowds across Punjab.
Punjab Ready to Host Major Hockey Event
Punjab will also host the Asian Champions Trophy Hockey Tournament for the first time this October. Notably, this is one of Asia’s most prestigious hockey tournaments.
The matches will take place at Balbir Singh Senior Hockey Stadium in Mohali and Surjit Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar. Ultimately, the tournament will showcase Punjab’s growing sports infrastructure and strengthen its reputation as a major sporting destination.
The New Stadiums to Train Future Olympians initiative reflects the state’s long-term vision. Overall, the government wants to create better opportunities for young athletes, promote healthy lifestyles, and build a strong sporting culture across Punjab Hockey Tournament for the first time this October. Matches will be played at Balbir Singh Senior Hockey Stadium, Mohali, and Surjit Hockey Stadium, Jalandhar, marking a significant achievement for the state’s sporting landscape.
