Photo Source: Babushahi Bureau
Breaking: Punjab CM Mann seeks Centre’s clearance for Japan visit to watch Indian Hockey matches
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, September 25, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is expected to travel to Japan to watch Indian hockey matches after receiving an invitation from Japan, with the state government seeking political clearance from the Centre for the proposed visit.
According to AAP spokesperson Baltej Pannu, the Punjab government has formally approached the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) seeking the required political clearance for Mann’s visit.
Pannu said Mann has been invited to attend international hockey matches in Japan and encourage Indian players. The Chief Minister has a keen interest in sports, particularly hockey, he added.
The proposed visit is scheduled from September 30 to October 3, subject to the required clearance from the Centre.
According to the schedule shared by the Punjab government, preliminary matches are scheduled for September 30 and October 1, while the men’s and women’s hockey finals are scheduled for October 2 and 3.
Mann intends to attend the matches in person and support the Indian teams from the stadium, Pannu said. The Punjab government and the Chief Minister’s Office are expecting the Centre to grant the required clearance within the next few days.