After the successful organization of Asian Champions Trophy-2026, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has said that the state is now all set to host the prestigious Hockey World Cup in the year 2030. Congratulating the people of Punjab on the successful management of the international tournament along with Governor Gulab Chand Kataria, the Chief Minister said that Punjab has an unbreakable relationship with hockey and the state's rich sporting heritage makes it a natural choice for major global sporting events.
Tezzbuzz Desk – Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said six new hockey astroturf grounds have already been prepared, while work on two others is underway. He said that Rs 1,744 crore has been kept in the budget especially for sports. The Chief Minister said that the government is committed to taking the great sports heritage of Punjab to new heights.
India retained the title by defeating Japan 4-1 in the final of the Asian Champions Trophy. During this time, a glimpse of the cultural heritage of Punjab was also seen through spectacular Gatka and Bhangra presentations in the packed Mohali Stadium.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann said, “Punjab is all set to host the prestigious Hockey World Cup in the year 2030. The successful management of the ongoing Asian Champions Trophy-2026 reflects the growing capability of the state to host major international sporting events. Hosting the Asian Champions Trophy for the first time is a historic achievement in the sporting journey of Punjab and an important step towards major international sporting events.”
He said that Punjab is known across the world for its hardworking people, great culture and warm hospitality. Every player and spectator will leave with unforgettable memories of their stay in Punjab.
Referring to the hockey heritage of Punjab, the Chief Minister said that it is impossible to imagine the glorious history of Indian hockey without the contribution of Punjabi players. He also mentioned great Olympians Balbir Singh Sr., Udham Singh, Prithipal Singh, Ajit Pal Singh and Surjeet Singh along with present-day stars Harmanpreet Singh, Manpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh and Rupinder Pal Singh.
Bhagwant Mann said that Punjab has produced 77 hockey Olympians from the 1928 Amsterdam Olympic Games to the 2024 Paris Olympics, while 48 players from the state have won Olympic medals. He said that this unique legacy reflects the deep passion for hockey in Punjab.
The Chief Minister said that the Olympian Surjit Singh Hockey Stadium is a symbol of the glorious sports heritage of Punjab. The stadium is producing future champions through the Punjab Institute of Sports Center and Khelo India Centre, where 102 and 33 hockey players are receiving special training respectively.
Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann said that the government implemented the new sports policy in the year 2023 and for the first time kept a budget of Rs 1,744 crore specifically for sports. He said this reflects the government's commitment to provide better opportunities and facilities to young sports talent.
India retained the Asian Champions Trophy by defeating Japan 4-1 in the final played at the Balbir Singh Senior International Hockey Stadium in Mohali. Earlier, Malaysia defeated South Korea and secured third place in the tournament.
On this occasion, Governor Gulab Chand Kataria and Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann presented a special jersey to Indian player Hardik Singh, who played his 200th international match. Earlier, Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann met the Indian and Japanese players, encouraged them and honored the winning Indian team with the gold medal.
During the closing ceremony, a spectacular cultural program enthralled the audience, in which Bhangra presentation was the center of attraction. Hockey India General Secretary Bhola Nath praised Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the Punjab government for the success of the tournament. Principal Secretary Sports Varun Roojam, Hockey India General Secretary Bhola Nath, Hockey Punjab President Nitin Kohli and other dignitaries were specially present on the occasion.