The government of Punjab is taking a bold step towards guiding its youth away from drug addiction by promoting sports. Announced by the government, this initiative aims to connect young people and children with sports. Arvind Kejriwal, Aam Aadmi Party’s national convenor, alongside Punjab's Chief Minister, Bhagwant Mann, laid the foundation stone for a world-class sports stadium in Jalandhar. Both leaders flagged off a truck loaded with 25,000 rugby balls destined for the Women's Rugby World Cup in England, showcasing Jalandhar's involvement in international sports and underscoring Punjab's pride.
Calling it a historic day for Jalandhar, Arvind Kejriwal spoke about the envisioned state-of-the-art multisports complex which will house facilities for cricket, hockey, yoga, basketball, and volleyball, and will become a hub for sports enthusiasts. It promises to attract thousands of locals daily for games and exercise, making the complex a miniature city of its own. Kejriwal emphasized it being a unique facility not just in Punjab but in north India.
Reflecting on their election commitment in 2022 to establish such a facility, Kejriwal announced the completion of the complex within a year. He reminisced that Punjab, once leading in agriculture, sports, and industry, has been diverted from its path by previous regimes, plunging its youth into a drug epidemic. Now, under Aam Aadmi Party’s governance, there is a concerted effort to combat drug abuse with unprecedented vigor and resources.
Community Involvement in Anti-Drug Campaign – Kejriwal
Arvind Kejriwal highlighted the public's growing involvement in the anti-drug campaign. Villagers themselves are deciding against drug sales and testifying to these changes publicly. The fear that once silenced voices is being lifted, thanks to stringent actions like arrests, raids, and the demolition of establishments linked to the drug trade. The multisports complex is anticipated to play a critical role in weaning youth away from drugs.
The government of Punjab has allocated budgets for sports fields across its 13,000 villages, each given resources to build youth clubs and sports grounds, inclusive of equipment for cricket, volleyball, and football. This initiative is aimed at not only keeping youth engaged in healthier activities but also preparing employment opportunities for those recovering from drug addiction.
International Cricket Stadium Coming to Amritsar – Kejriwal
In another exciting announcement, Kejriwal revealed that Amritsar, a city of historical significance, is set to host Punjab’s second international cricket stadium, following Mohali. In line with the upcoming Rugby World Cup in England, Jalandhar’s factory is actively producing rugby balls, fostering a reputable sporting goods industry. The manufacture of cricket world cup balls and bats also strengthens Jalandhar’s industrial identity. Kejriwal criticized past governments for their rampant corruption which stifled industries with extortion but assured the transparency and honesty of the current administration.
Kejriwal optimistically predicted the return of industries that previously left Punjab due to bureaucratic hurdles, promising timely processing of approvals to create employment. He reiterated, engaging in sports will, consequently, distance youth from drug addiction. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Mann, referencing Jalandhar's storied history in hockey and other sports, highlighted political mismanagement as a cause of decline. Concerted strategic efforts aim to reinstate Punjab's lost athletic honor, shaping sports as a pillar in the battle against drugs.
