10 September 2026 Punjab Khabarnama Bureau : Around 3,200 players have registered so far for the fourth edition of ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan’ in Hoshiarpur, reflecting strong participation in the Punjab government’s sports initiative.
Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain said the games are being organised to promote sports and encourage people across different age groups to participate in competitive sporting activities.
Competitions Across 38 Disciplines
The sporting event is being organised across 38 disciplines and covers nine age categories, ranging from Under-14 to players above 70 years.
Both men and women are participating in the competitions, making the event one of the state’s major grassroots sporting initiatives.
Block-Level Competitions Underway
Block-level competitions in Hoshiarpur will continue until September 18.
Seven disciplines are being conducted at the block level: athletics, kho-kho, kabaddi (national style), kabaddi (circle style), football, volleyball (smashing) and volleyball (shooting). Winners from these competitions will qualify for the district-level events.
District Events From September 20
The district-level competitions are scheduled to take place from September 20 to 30.
A total of 28 disciplines will be contested at the district level. Seven will reach the district stage through block-level competitions, while another 21 disciplines will be conducted directly at the district level.
Wide Range of Sports Included
The district-level programme includes sports such as hockey, badminton, basketball, boxing, wrestling, swimming, table tennis, weightlifting, chess, shooting, fencing, archery and roller skating.
The wide range of disciplines is intended to provide opportunities for athletes with different sporting interests and abilities.
Prize Money and Certificates
Winners of the state-wide sporting initiative will receive prize money exceeding ₹12 crore, along with gradation certificates.
The certificates can provide additional recognition to participating sportspersons and encourage young athletes to pursue competitive sports more seriously.
Focus on Fitness and Youth Engagement
Deputy Commissioner Aashika Jain urged young people, sportspersons and sports clubs to participate in large numbers.
She said sporting activities help develop fitness, discipline, confidence and team spirit, while also encouraging people to adopt healthier lifestyles.
Grassroots Sports Push in Punjab
The large number of registrations in Hoshiarpur highlights the growing emphasis on taking organised sporting competitions to the grassroots level.
By including children, young athletes, adults and senior citizens, the event seeks to make sports participation broader and more inclusive.
Hoshiarpur Joins Statewide Sporting Drive
The Hoshiarpur competitions form part of the wider Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan 2026 programme being held across Punjab.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening the state’s sporting culture and providing athletes with opportunities to compete, gain recognition and progress to higher levels.