Punjab CM Mann orders world-class arrangements for Asian Hockey Champions Trophy in Jalandhar
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, October 9, 2026: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has directed all departments to ensure world-class arrangements for the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy, scheduled to be held from October 27 to November 5, with the opening ceremony in Jalandhar on October 27.
Chairing a review meeting on Friday, Mann called for close coordination among departments, international-standard facilities for participating teams, improved civic infrastructure and comprehensive hospitality arrangements. He said Punjab must set new benchmarks in hosting international sporting events.
The Chief Minister said the tournament would provide an opportunity to showcase Punjab’s rich hockey heritage, sporting infrastructure and cultural traditions before an international audience.
Teams from India, China, Malaysia, Japan, Bangladesh and South Korea are expected to participate in the championship, bringing the state into the international sporting spotlight.
Mann directed the departments concerned to complete preparations well in advance, ensuring comfortable accommodation, transportation, security, food and other essential facilities for players, officials and visiting delegations.
He also instructed the Municipal Corporation, Jalandhar, to intensify cleanliness and sanitation drives, improve public amenities and undertake city beautification. Roads leading to the stadium and other important locations are to be maintained, with recarpeting wherever required.
Emphasising that preparations must extend beyond the main venue, the Chief Minister said traffic management, accessibility, sanitation and supporting infrastructure were equally important to the smooth conduct of the tournament. He directed officials to inspect arrangements on the ground and address any shortcomings promptly.
Statewide Trophy Tour Planned
To build excitement ahead of the championship, Mann directed officials to explore a statewide publicity campaign featuring the tournament trophy or its replica in a specially designed SUV that would travel across Punjab.
He said the initiative would help raise awareness and encourage people in different districts to connect with the international sporting event.
The Chief Minister also called for greater participation by school and college students, directing officials to facilitate their visits to matches so that young people could watch international players and draw inspiration from Punjab’s hockey legacy.
Mann further announced that a dedicated liaison committee would be constituted to coordinate between government departments, tournament organisers and other stakeholders.
He said the objective was to ensure that the championship was organised efficiently, with high standards of professionalism and hospitality.
Chief Secretary K.A.P. Sinha, Additional Chief Secretary Anurag Verma, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Dr Ravi Bhagat, Sports Secretary Varun Rujam, Information and Public Relations Secretary Puneet Goel and other senior officials attended the meeting.