JALANDHAR
Local Bodies Minister Balkar Singh on Sunday said that the new sports policy of the Punjab government was aimed at reviving the glory days of sports at the grassroots by laying major focus on creating modernized sports infrastructure, specialized coaching/training of players, etc. to produce champions.
While felicitating Sandeep, a head constable posted at PAP who had won a gold medal in 400m hurdles during the World Police Games in his house, Balkar Singh said that the former had made the country and state proud by bagging the gold at the world stage.
He said that the Punjab government would make adequate arrangements for specialized training and coaching for Sandeep so that the latter can bring more laurels for the country.
The Minister said that under the new policy, sports nurseries will be established throughout Punjab and the strength of coaches will also be enhanced from 309 to 2360.
Besides, for the first time for the preparation of international sports competitions, The Minister said that Rs 15 lakh will be given for the Olympics and Paralympics.
Moreover, 200 hostel rooms will be established in each district to prepare sportspersons for national-level competitions, he said and added that winners of gold, silver, and bronze medals in the Olympic games will be given a cash reward of Rs 3 crore, Rs 2 crore and Rs 1 crore respectively.
The Minister also announced Rs 21000 as encouragement from salary for Sandeep.
It is to be noted that the Indian police contingent exhibited outstanding performance in the World Police Games held in Winnipeg (Canada), in which the 18-member sports team of Punjab Police made a significant contribution by winning a total of 42 medals. Punjab police players have won 27 gold, 10 silver, and five bronze medals.