Punjab Newsline | Chandigarh
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Monday invited all MLAs to attend the Asian Champions Trophy matches and encourage players, expressing hope that the state’s successful hosting of the international tournament could pave the way for Punjab to host the 2030 Hockey World Cup.
Addressing the Punjab Assembly during its special session, Mann highlighted Punjab’s rich sporting legacy, recalling legendary athletes such as Milkha Singh, Dara Singh, Olympian Surjit Singh and Balbir Singh.
He said Punjab has made a significant contribution to Indian hockey, noting that nine of the 11 players in the Indian team are from Punjab. He added that three of the four players on the bench also belong to the state.
Mann said a match between Malaysia and China would be held in Jalandhar on Monday, followed by India's clash against Bangladesh in the evening. He also confirmed that he would attend the tournament's opening ceremony.
The Chief Minister said that, for the first time since the formation of Punjab, players were getting an opportunity to compete at the international level on their home turf. League matches will be held at Burlton Park in Jalandhar, while the semi-finals and final are scheduled to take place in Mohali on November 3 and 4.
Inviting the Speaker and all legislators to attend the matches, Mann urged them to support the players and help make the tournament a success. He said Punjab’s ability to organise the event successfully could strengthen its prospects of hosting the 2030 Hockey World Cup.
Mann also spoke about inviting Congress leaders and hockey players to the matches, emphasising the importance of collective participation in promoting hockey and showcasing Punjab as a potential host for major international sporting events.
During his address, the Chief Minister also referred to proposals concerning Punjab’s water issues, the opening of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor and various government schemes, describing them as important matters before the House.
