Chandigarh: Kickstarting his first serious initiative to promote sporting activity in the state, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday reviewed the arrangements ‘Punjab Khed Mela’ a two month long sports extravaganza being organized by the state government from August 29, the birth anniversary of Major Dhyan Chand, also observed as National Sports Day in the country.
Chairing a meeting, the Chief Minister said, “Hockey wizard Major Dhyan Chand has always been a source of inspiration for millions of sportspersons and ‘Punjab Khed Mela’ will re-ignite a passion for sports among budding players and common people”. Appealing to the people to participate in this mega event, Bhagwant Mann said that this is a mega initiative of the state government in the field of sports.
He said that a number of players who have done well in the ongoing Commonwealth games have proved that Punjabi youth, if given a conducive environment can do wonders in any field. Bhagwant Mann said that this mela will help in identifying new talent and will also contribute in creating a sporting atmosphere in the state.
The Chief Minister said that in this first of its kind mela, more than four lakh people, including players and others will participate in 28 sporting events which will be held in various categories. He said that this Mela will be held from block to the state level, and winners will be given cash prizes worth Rs. 5 crore along with certificates. There will be special categories for para athletes and the 40 plus age group.
The Chief Minister asked the officers to ensure foolproof arrangements for this mela adding that any sort of carelessness in this noble cause is undesirable. He urged officials to put in their best to make the event a huge success.