Punjab News Daily
Dirba, May 27

Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema said that sports not only help keep the youth physically fit and healthy but also keep them away from drugs and other social evils, thereby contributing to the creation of a healthy society for the future. He was addressing players during a cricket tournament organized at village Khanal Khurd to encourage and motivate the participants.

With the support of the village panchayat, Baba Waryam Singh Sports Club organised a grand cricket tournament this year as well, continuing its annual tradition. Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema attended the tournament as the chief guest and interacted with the players, boosting their morale.

Addressing the players, the Cabinet Minister said that sports are an essential part of human life and form the foundation of a healthy society. He added that despite the intense summer heat, Punjab’s youth are enthusiastically showcasing their talent on the sports field, reflecting their passion and determination.

He said such tournaments give a fitting reply to those who try to defame Punjab’s youth with the stigma of drugs and demonstrate that the youth of Punjab not only guard the nation’s borders and produce food in the fields but also make their opponents sweat when they step onto the sports field.

Responding to the demand of players and villagers, he also announced the construction of a stadium in village Khanal Khurd. He said that as soon as the panchayat provides land for the stadium, the construction work will begin immediately.

Under the sports policy formulated by the Punjab government, nearly 3,000 stadiums have already been constructed across Punjab, and the government led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has set a target of building 6,000 more stadiums. Highlighting the government’s commitment to sports, he said that just two days ago, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann honoured hundreds of players with the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Awards. In addition, many players were also awarded cash prizes in recognition of their achievements. He added that this is the first government to provide financial assistance to players even before they participate in competitions.

Village Sarpanch Satnam Singh thanked Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema and said that he had earlier provided several grants for the development of the village, and by fulfilling the long-pending demand for a stadium, he had upheld the honour of the villagers.

Apart from prominent village residents, the entire panchayat, club members, and players from the area were present on the occasion.