CHANDIGARH: Punjab is all set to host the prestigious Hockey Asian Champions Trophy later this year, with Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann reviewing preparations and directing officials to complete all infrastructure and organisational works before September. Chairing a high-level meeting, the Chief Minister ordered the constitution of an organising committee comprising experts, players and stakeholders, besides a high-powered panel of senior officers to regularly monitor progress at the venues in Jalandhar and SAS Nagar (Mohali).
Emphasising the need for world-class facilities, Mann directed that the stadiums be upgraded in line with international standards and assured full support for the successful conduct of the tournament. He said Punjab, long regarded as the nursery of Indian hockey, was honoured to host such a prestigious international event, adding that it would inspire the state’s youth to take up sports and further strengthen Punjab’s sporting culture.
Calling the championship a historic milestone, the Chief Minister said this would be the first major international hockey tournament hosted by Punjab despite the state’s immense contribution to Indian hockey over the decades. He assured that the government would make comprehensive arrangements for security, logistics and player facilities, ensuring the event is conducted smoothly and leaves a lasting impact on sports development in the state.
