Stadium opened in Phagwara village

As part of the government’s ongoing initiative to promote sports among the youth and combat drug abuse, a newly constructed sports stadium was inaugurated today in Khalwara village under the Phagwara constituency. The project was completed at a cost of Rs10 lakh.

The inauguration ceremony was jointly led by Member of Parliament Dr Raj Kumar Chabbewal and Phagwara constituency in-charge Harnoor Singh (Harji) Mann.

Speaking on the occasion, Dr Chabbewal highlighted that the Bhagwant Mann-led government has already facilitated the construction of 13,000 sports grounds across Punjab, with the aim of channeling youth energy toward constructive and healthy activities. “This is a commendable step towards building a stronger, drug-free Punjab,” he said.

Addressing a gathering, Harji Mann said, “Punjab has always been at the forefront — from the battlefield to the sports field. The government is not only fighting a war against drugs but is also encouraging fitness and competition by establishing sports stadiums and open gyms in villages.”

He urged the youth to adopt a healthy lifestyle, stay away from drugs, and take active interest in sports. He also assured that the state government is committed to supporting promising athletes at both state and national levels.

The event saw the presence of several dignitaries and community leaders, including district president Sarabjit Singh Lubana, Deputy Mayor Vicky Sood, Gurdeep Singh Deepa, Seema Rana, youth in-charge Ranjit Singh Fateh, and numerous village sarpanches and local officials.