Punjab Newsline | Sangrur
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has said that the state government is developing Sangrur into a skating hub to nurture international-level talent, with players from the district winning 70 to 80 national medals every year. He also announced that a new world-class skating track is being developed in Dhuri to provide athletes with better training facilities
.
Interacting with young skaters, Mann congratulated players who had won silver medals at the 19th and 20th Asian Roller Skating Championships. He said the government was committed to ensuring that athletes had access to the best facilities and resources to excel at national and international competitions.
“We are developing Sangrur into a skating hub to nurture international-level players. Skating is a highly challenging sport that requires exceptional skills, technique and dedication,” the Chief Minister said.
He noted that Sangrur district already has two skating tracks, while another skating facility is being developed in Dhuri. He assured athletes that a shortage of infrastructure or resources would not be allowed to hinder their progress.
Highlighting the state government's focus on sports, Mann said a budget of ₹1,790 crore had been allocated to the sector for the first time. He contrasted the initiative with the approach of previous governments, alleging that sports had not received the importance they deserved.
Chief Minister also highlighted the ongoing fourth season of Khedan Watan Punjab Dian, which is providing a platform for young athletes to showcase their abilities and pursue sporting careers. He said the government was developing more than 3,000 rural sports grounds and establishing gyms in villages to encourage young people to adopt a healthy and disciplined lifestyle.
Mann acknowledged the contribution of parents and coaches to athletes' achievements, saying their guidance, encouragement and support played a vital role in helping players succeed. He urged parents to encourage children to participate in sports alongside their studies, noting that sporting activities help develop discipline, confidence and teamwork.
Emphasising Punjab's contribution to Indian sports, the Chief Minister pointed to the state's representation in several national teams. He referred to Harmanpreet Singh in men's hockey, Shubman Gill in men's cricket, Harmanpreet Kaur in women's cricket, Gurpreet Singh Sandhu in men's football and Palpreet Singh Brar in basketball as examples of Punjab's sporting talent.
In a post on X, Mann said he was encouraged by the enthusiasm of children and young people at the Sangrur skating track. He praised the dedication of athletes, parents and coaches and expressed hope that young players would excel in both sports and academics, bringing honour to Punjab and the country.
Exhibition speed-skating races for boys and girls were also organised during the event. The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government would continue investing in sports infrastructure and creating opportunities for young athletes to achieve success at national and international levels.
