Lopoke: The Punjab government has announced a major expansion of sports infrastructure across the state, with Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema declaring that 6,000 new sports stadiums will be constructed to further promote sports culture among youth.
The announcement was made during the inauguration of a kabaddi tournament held at Bhagat Meva Singh Lopoke Stadium in the town of Lopoke, Amritsar. The event was dedicated to the memory of Canada’s first Sikh martyr, Bhai Meva Singh Lopoke.
The minister stated that the state government had already developed around 3,000 sports stadiums and playgrounds across Punjab, and the new expansion plan aims to further strengthen grassroots sports infrastructure.
He emphasized that promoting sports is a key strategy to engage youth and steer them away from drug abuse. According to him, sports participation will help Punjab’s young generation achieve success at national and international levels.
Cheema also highlighted that the Punjab government has allocated a special budget for sports development and youth engagement. He added that new employment opportunities are also being created for the youth through various government initiatives.
Referring to the ongoing anti-drug campaign War Against Drugs Punjab, the Finance Minister said that the drive has achieved significant success, with several major drug traffickers already arrested and imprisoned.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to eliminating drug abuse from its roots and building a healthier, more vibrant Punjab through sports and development programs.
The kabaddi tournament event was also praised by officials and organizers, who called it an important step in reviving Punjab’s sports traditions and honoring historical legacy.
