A new playbook for Punjab’s sporting stars

Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU) has drafted its first-ever sports policy, defining regulations and standard operating procedure for sportspersons and sports programmes being offered at the university.

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The university — which has, over the years, produced several Olympians and Asian Games medallists and has won the MAKA trophy a record 25 times — did not have a defined document on sports policy earlier.

It, however, offered a robust sports programme through the university syndicate.

The newly drafted policy is aimed at improving sports infrastructure, upgrading existing sports and coaching programmes and increasing academic as well as monetary support for sportspersons.

Key highlights of the sports policy draft include free-of-cost admissions to various departments for athletes; free residential facilities during the training and academic period; direct monthly diet support of Rs 3,500-Rs 18,000 (depending on the level of athletes); travel support; career support; and placements for athletes.

Additionally, the university will now employ international coaches and trainers, implementing fitness and sports training at par with globally renowned universities to improve its sports programme.

The university will now give higher cash prizes — between Rs 30,000-Rs 1,50,00,000 — to recognise sports achievements.

GNDU Sports Director Kanwar Mandeep Singh said, “Special focus has been given to empower women in sports, and to encourage more youngsters from Punjab to take up sports. Safe training environment, free education, food, lodging and training for athletes, and increased prize money are just some of benefits that will attract more youngsters towards sports.”

He said the university was committed to building a healthy, active and competitive sports environment, for which having a defined draft of sports policy was just the first step.

The number of seats in academic programmes have also been increased from two to five per course for sportspersons.

GNDU athletes have been actively participating, and achieving success, in various sporting events.

The varsity has churned out several renowned sportspersons — including shooters Aishwary Pratap Tomar and Sift Kaur, and hockey veteran Ajit Pal Singh.

GNDU supports athletes with resources like physiotherapy and psychological training. Vice-Chancellor Karamjeet Singh said the policy would empower athletes and nurture talent.

“It is a comprehensive initiative aimed at nurturing sports talent at every level — school, college and university. The policy serves a roadmap to excellence in sports by offering a wide range of benefits catering to physical, educational, financial and psychological needs of athletes.”