Chandigarh, Aug 19 (IANS) Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Wednesday announced the fourth edition of Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan from September 5 to November 29, with a target of involving more than 10 lakh participants across all age groups.
The sporting event, aimed at reviving sporting culture and channelising the energy of youth towards sports, will begin with the opening ceremony at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium in Bathinda and conclude with the closing ceremony in Patiala.
This edition has been planned as the biggest edition of the sporting extravaganza so far.
Chief Minister Mann told the media here that “it is a matter of immense pride and satisfaction that this year our target is to involve 10 lakh players. Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan is the best platform to identify, promote and nurture hidden sporting talent from every village, town and city of Punjab”.
“Through these games, we aim to prepare our children and youth for competitions at the national and international levels. A unique feature of Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan is that it brings different generations together. In previous editions, three generations of the same family, including grandfather, son and grandson, participated in the games. This year, players from nine age groups will participate, ranging from 14 years to above 70 years of age.”
He said that 38 sports disciplines will be organised this year, along with four para-sports, namely athletics, powerlifting, badminton and wheelchair basketball.
“We have introduced a simple registration process this year and registration is completely free of cost. For the first time, the Sports Department has introduced QR-code-based registration, enabling players to register anytime and from anywhere.”
Registration can also be completed through the Sports Department’s portal and the process is already underway.
“I appeal to all players to register themselves and participate enthusiastically in these games. The competitions will be organised at block, district and state levels, covering all 153 blocks and all 23 districts of Punjab. The state-level games will be held across 16 districts,” the Chief Minister added.
–IANS
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