Punjab CM and CS
CM Mann reviews Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan 2026 preparations; Games to begin on Sept 5
10 lakh players to compete in 38 sports disciplines and four para-sports across Punjab
₹10,000 for Gold, ₹7,000 for Silver and ₹5,000 for Bronze at State Level; Games to Cover All 153 Blocks and 23 Districts
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, September 1, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday reviewed preparations for the fourth season of ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan – 2026’, which will begin on September 5 at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium in Bathinda.
Chairing a meeting with senior officials, Mann directed them to ensure foolproof arrangements for the smooth and hassle-free conduct of the state’s major sporting event. He said around 10 lakh players are expected to participate in this year’s games.
The Chief Minister said the event will feature 38 sports disciplines, along with four para-sports—athletics, powerlifting, badminton and wheelchair basketball. Players from nine age groups, from 14 years to above 70 years, will take part in the competitions.
Mann said the games provide an opportunity to identify and nurture sporting talent from villages, towns and cities across Punjab. He also highlighted the participation of different generations, noting that in earlier editions, members of the same family, including grandparents, parents and grandchildren, had participated.
QR-Based Registration Introduced
For the first time, the Sports Department has introduced a QR-code-based registration facility to make participation easier. Registration is free and can be completed through the Punjab Sports Portal at sports.punjab.gov.in.
The Chief Minister said the registration process has been designed to be quick and simple, allowing players to register from anywhere.
The competitions will be organised at the block, district and state levels. The games will cover all 153 blocks and 23 districts of Punjab, while state-level competitions will be held across 16 districts.
Tennis Ball Cricket Added as Demonstration Sport
Mann said Tennis Ball Cricket for boys and girls has been included for the first time as a demonstration sport, giving additional opportunities to young players to participate and showcase their talent.
He said the government aims to use the games to identify promising athletes and prepare children and youth for competitions at national and international levels.
Cash Prizes for State-Level Medal Winners
The Chief Minister announced cash prizes for state-level medal winners. Gold medal winners will receive ₹10,000, silver medal winners ₹7,000 and bronze medal winners ₹5,000.
Appealing to youngsters and sports enthusiasts to participate in large numbers, Mann said the government was working to strengthen Punjab’s sporting culture and restore the state’s position as a leading sporting state.
The games will continue until November 29, with the closing scheduled to be held in Patiala.
Chief Secretary KAP Sinha, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr Ravi Bhagat, Secretary Sports Varun Roojam, Special Secretary Information and Public Relations Puneet Goyal and other senior officials attended the meeting.