Jalandhar can become model city in sports development: Pillay

Indian hockey legend and Padma Shri awardee Dhanraj Pillay was in Jalandhar today, where he met Hockey India vice-president Nitin Kohli to discuss future strategies for sports development, youth empowerment and social responsibility.

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Pillay stressed that efforts at the grassroots level were needed to uplift hockey in Punjab. He said that Jalandhar could once again become a model city in sports development, for which changes in public policy and support of the government were required. The former Indian hockey captain emphasised that Punjab had abundant sports talent, but it needed guidance, infrastructure and platforms.

“Sports should not be seen just as a competition. It has the potential of becoming a tool of transformation for youth. A leader who can translate sporting experience into impactful policy making can be a big boost for the city,” said Pillay, referring to Kohli, who is now also the AAP halqa incharge of Jalandhar Central Assembly seat.

Sharing his vision, Pillay said that focus should be on nurturing the talent of young hockey players who have represented India at national and international levels. He also stressed the need of providing players with facilities, coaching and opportunities. “That’s what the sports ecosystem needs to flourish,” he said.

He stressed the importance of integrating sports social service. Pillay was accompanied by former international players Arjun Halappa and Jeevan Mahadev.