Says drug abuse is a nationwide problem, but Punjab’s planned fight against drugs is yielding positive results
Patiala News (PEN News): The torch march of the fourth season of Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan, organised by the Sports Department, was flagged off from Rink Hall, Baradari, Patiala, today for its next destination, Fatehgarh Sahib, after an overnight halt in Patiala.
Addressing the gathering, AAP State General Secretary and Media In-charge Baltej Singh Pannu said that Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan has given concrete shape to Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s vision of promoting a sports culture and making Punjab the country’s leading state in sports.
Pannu said sports have also played an important role in curbing drug abuse in the state. He said that 3,100 sports stadiums have been constructed in Punjab over the past four years, providing opportunities for three generations to participate in sports at the same venues.
He said drug abuse is not merely a Punjab issue but a problem affecting India and the entire world. However, he added that the systematic campaign Yudh Nasheyan Virudh, launched by the Punjab Government with people’s participation, is producing positive results.
On a question regarding law and order, Pannu said the situation in Punjab is firmly under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann and there is no need for the Opposition to worry. Criticising the India-US trade agreement, he said its adverse impact would be borne primarily by farmers and urged the Prime Minister to listen to their legitimate demands.
Pannu also honoured Arjun, a bronze medallist in the foil category at the Commonwealth Fencing Championship and a coach; Gurpreet Singh, Olympian athletics coach; and Kanika Ahuja, Asian silver medallist cricketer and coach.
District Sports Officer Navjot Singh Dhaliwal said competitions in five sports—kabaddi, kho-kho, volleyball, football and athletics will be held at the block level, while 28 sports will be organised at the district level and 38 at the state level.
Among those present were PRTC Chairman Harpal Juneja, District Planning Committee Chairman Tejinder Mehta, Yudh Nasheyan Virudh Coordinator Yadvinder Singh Goldy, ADC Damanjit Singh Mann, OSD Gurwinder Singh, coaches, sportspersons, students and teachers.
