Punjab is preparing to host the Hockey World Cup 2030. CM Bhagwant Mann highlights hockey legacy, new astroturf grounds and ₹1,744 crore sports budget.
Punjab has taken another significant step towards strengthening its position on the international sporting map after successfully hosting the Asian Champions Trophy 2026. Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann has expressed confidence that the state is fully prepared to host the prestigious Hockey World Cup in 2030. He said Punjab’s rich hockey heritage, contribution to Indian hockey and improving sports infrastructure make it a strong contender for hosting major international sporting competitions.
Congratulating the people of Punjab on the successful organisation of the Asian Champions Trophy, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann and Governor Gulab Chand Kataria highlighted the state’s growing sporting capabilities. According to the Chief Minister, the successful tournament has demonstrated Punjab’s ability to manage international sporting events and opened the door for bigger opportunities.
Punjab Targets Hockey World Cup 2030 After Successful Tournament
Addressing the gathering at the Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab is ready to take on the responsibility of hosting the Hockey World Cup 2030.
He described the Asian Champions Trophy 2026 as a historic milestone in the state’s sporting journey, as Punjab hosted the prestigious competition for the first time. The successful event has strengthened the state’s confidence in organising major international tournaments.
Mann also highlighted Punjab’s hospitality, cultural diversity and sporting traditions, saying that players and visitors from different countries would take unforgettable memories of their stay in the state.
India Defeats Japan 4-1 to Retain Asian Champions Trophy
The celebrations in Mohali became even more special after the Indian men’s hockey team defeated Japan 4-1 in the final to retain the Asian Champions Trophy title.
The final was played at the Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium, where thousands of spectators gathered to support the Indian team. Malaysia secured third place after defeating South Korea in another competitive encounter.
During the closing ceremony, the stadium witnessed colourful cultural performances showcasing Punjab’s traditional heritage. Gatka and Bhangra performances became major attractions, adding energy and excitement to the celebrations.
Taking to X, CM Bhagwant Singh Mann shared his excitement about attending the final. He congratulated the organisers and encouraged the Indian players, expressing confidence in their ability to bring glory to the country.
Punjab Has Produced 77 Hockey Olympians
Highlighting the state’s contribution to Indian hockey, Bhagwant Singh Mann said that Punjab has produced 77 hockey Olympians from the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics to the 2024 Paris Olympics. Among them, 48 players have won Olympic medals.
He emphasised that Punjab’s contribution to Indian hockey goes back several decades. Legendary players such as Balbir Singh Senior, Udham Singh, Prithipal Singh, Ajit Pal Singh and Surjit Singh played an important role in establishing India’s reputation in international hockey.
The state continues to produce outstanding players, including Harmanpreet Singh, Manpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh and Rupinder Pal Singh.
The Chief Minister also pointed out that Punjabi players have captained the Indian hockey team on 10 occasions at the Olympic Games, reflecting their longstanding influence on the sport.
Punjab Players Shine in Recent Olympic Games
Mann highlighted the contribution of Punjab’s players to India’s recent Olympic campaigns.
During the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, eight players from Punjab represented the country. At the Paris 2024 Olympics, nine players from the state were part of the Indian contingent.
Manpreet Singh and Harmanpreet Singh led the Indian hockey team as captains during these respective Olympic campaigns. The Chief Minister further noted that eight players from Punjab, including captain Harmanpreet Singh, are part of the current Indian hockey team.
These achievements, he said, demonstrate the state’s continued contribution to India’s international hockey success.
Jalandhar Villages Have Produced Generations of Hockey Stars
The Chief Minister also highlighted Jalandhar’s special place in India’s hockey history. The city and its surrounding villages have nurtured several generations of international hockey players and Olympians.
Villages such as Sansarpur, Khusropur and Mithapur have gained international recognition for their strong hockey traditions. Collectively, these villages have produced more than 20 Olympians.
Mann also referred to the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium, which represents Punjab’s sporting legacy and plays an important role in developing young talent.
Currently, 102 hockey players are receiving specialised training at the Punjab Institute of Sports Centre, while another 33 players are being trained at the Khelo India Centre.
Six New Astroturf Grounds Constructed in Punjab
Strengthening sports infrastructure remains a major priority for the Punjab government. The Chief Minister said six new hockey astroturf grounds have already been constructed during the government’s tenure, while construction work on two additional grounds is underway.
Additionally, 18 six-a-side astroturf hockey grounds have been established to encourage participation at the grassroots level.
Mann stated that the government introduced a new sports policy in 2023 and allocated a dedicated budget of ₹1,744 crore exclusively for sports development.
The initiative aims to provide young athletes with better training facilities, professional coaching, financial support and opportunities to compete at national and international levels.
International Sporting Events to Boost Punjab’s Economy
According to Bhagwant Singh Mann, hosting international tournaments can generate economic opportunities beyond the sporting arena.
Events such as the Asian Champions Trophy can benefit several sectors, including sports tourism, hotels, hospitality, sports equipment manufacturing and other related industries.
He said that large sporting competitions encourage young people to pursue sports while also creating employment and business opportunities.
The government aims to develop an environment where talented athletes receive modern facilities, professional guidance and adequate financial assistance to achieve success.
Hardik Singh Honoured for Completing 200 International Matches
During the closing ceremony, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann honoured Indian hockey player Hardik Singh with a special jersey for completing 200 international matches.
Earlier, the Chief Minister interacted with Indian and Japanese players, encouraged them and presented gold medals to the victorious Indian team.
Hockey India Secretary General Bhola Nath appreciated the Punjab government and Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for successfully organising the tournament.
Principal Secretary Sports Varun Rujam, Hockey Punjab President Nitin Kohli and other dignitaries were also present at the event.
With improved sporting facilities, a strong hockey tradition and growing experience in managing international competitions, Punjab is now looking towards a bigger opportunity. The successful Asian Champions Trophy 2026 has strengthened the state’s ambitions, while preparations and infrastructure development could play an important role in its aspiration to host the Hockey World Cup 2030.
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