Baltej Pannu urges people to attend the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2026 in Jalandhar and Mohali, highlighting Punjab’s hockey legacy and free entry.
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Punjab media in-charge Baltej Pannu has urged people across the state to attend the upcoming international hockey tournament in Jalandhar and Mohali, describing it as an opportunity to celebrate Punjab’s deep-rooted connection with the sport. Spectators will be allowed to enter the venues free of charge, giving families and hockey enthusiasts a chance to witness international matches in their home state.
Highlighting Punjab’s contribution to Indian hockey, Pannu said the state has produced generations of talented players who have represented India at the Olympics and other major competitions. He appealed to the public to welcome all six participating teams—India, Bangladesh, China, Japan, South Korea and Malaysia—and create an enthusiastic atmosphere at the venues.
Punjab’s Hockey Legacy Takes Centre Stage
Speaking at a press conference, Baltej Pannu said hosting an international competition was a significant moment for a state that has played an important role in Indian hockey. He thanked the Indian hockey authorities for selecting Punjab as the host and encouraged residents to attend the matches with their families.
According to Baltej Pannu, Punjab has produced 77 hockey Olympians between the 1928 Amsterdam Olympics and the 2024 Paris Olympics. Of these, 48 players have won Olympic medals, reflecting the state’s longstanding contribution to the country’s sporting achievements.
He also noted that Indian hockey has secured eight Olympic gold medals, one silver and four bronze medals. Players from Punjab have captained the national team on 10 occasions at the Olympics, further demonstrating the state’s influence on Indian hockey.
Remembering Hockey Legends Udham Singh and Balbir Singh Sr.
Baltej Pannu paid tribute to legendary hockey players Udham Singh and Balbir Singh Sr., highlighting their achievements on the Olympic stage. Udham Singh won three Olympic gold medals and one silver, while Balbir Singh Sr. claimed three Olympic gold medals.
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He also recalled Balbir Singh Sr.’s remarkable performance in the final of the 1952 Helsinki Olympics, where the legendary forward scored five goals. The achievement remains one of the most celebrated moments in Indian hockey history.
Baltej Pannu further highlighted Punjab’s contribution to India’s recent Olympic success. The Indian men’s hockey team won bronze medals at the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 and the Paris Olympics in 2024. Punjab had nine players in the Tokyo squad and eight in the Paris team.
He also pointed to the leadership of Manpreet Singh and Harmanpreet Singh, both of whom have captained India at the Olympics. According to Baltej Pannu , the current Indian men’s hockey team includes nine players from Punjab, including captain Harmanpreet Singh.
Punjab’s Role in Major International Hockey Victories
Baltej Pannu also highlighted the contribution of Punjab’s players to India’s success in other major competitions. He recalled the 1975 Men’s Hockey World Cup victory under captain Ajit Pal Singh, who belonged to Punjab.
He also referred to India’s Junior Hockey World Cup triumphs in 2001 and 2016, associated with captains Gagan Ajit Singh and Harjeet Singh, respectively.
According to Baltej Pannu, Punjab’s hockey culture has developed through years of dedication and grassroots participation. Many players began their journeys on village grounds and local playing fields, often before synthetic hockey pitches became widely available.
The upcoming tournament will provide an opportunity for local fans to watch international teams compete while encouraging young players to take a greater interest in the sport.
Bhagwant Mann Government Highlights Sports Investment
Baltej Pannu said the Punjab government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has placed greater emphasis on sports infrastructure, athlete welfare and opportunities for young people.
He cited a state sports budget of more than ₹1,700 crore and the development of approximately 3,100 sports grounds across Punjab. He added that many of these facilities are available to local communities, helping people access sporting activities closer to home.
Baltej Pannu also highlighted the Khedan Watan Punjab Dian initiative, which aims to promote participation in sports across different age groups and communities. He said the government has focused on playground development, sports kits and organised competitions to help young athletes develop their abilities.
He further claimed that athletes who bring recognition to the country are being given their announced prize money promptly. Financial assistance for players preparing for international competitions is another measure he highlighted as part of the state’s sports support efforts.
Sports as a Tool to Keep Young People Away from Drugs
Connecting sports development with Punjab’s campaign against drug abuse, Baltej Pannu said young people need meaningful opportunities to participate in healthy and constructive activities.
He stressed that sports can encourage discipline, confidence, teamwork and a sense of achievement. In his view, initiatives such as Yudh Nasheyan Virudh can be supported by expanding access to playgrounds and encouraging young people to participate in organised sporting activities.
Baltej Pannu added that the international hockey tournament could inspire a new generation of players, particularly those who will have the opportunity to watch members of the Indian team compete on home soil in front of their families and local communities.
Baltej Pannu Appeals to Fans to Support Team India
Reiterating his appeal, Pannu urged residents to attend the matches in Jalandhar and Mohali and support all six participating teams. He said the tournament would allow Punjab to showcase not only its hockey tradition but also the talent and determination of its young athletes.
With free entry for spectators, the event is expected to offer families and sports lovers an opportunity to experience international hockey in person.
Pannu concluded that hockey and Punjab share a longstanding bond that deserves wider recognition. He said the tournament should be an occasion for people to celebrate the state’s sporting heritage, encourage Indian players and inspire young talent to pursue sports.
The Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2026 will therefore serve as an international sporting occasion and an opportunity to highlight Punjab’s contribution to Indian hockey, alongside the state government’s stated focus on sports infrastructure and grassroots participation.
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