CM Bhagwant Mann felicitates hockey players for winning bronze medal at Paris Olympics

NEW DELHI: Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann honored eight hockey players from Punjab with a cash prize of Rs 1 crore each for securing the bronze medal at the Paris Olympics .

The event, held on Sunday, celebrated the athletes' significant achievements.

Mann also awarded Rs 15 lakh each to eleven other Olympic participants from the state.

Mann addressed the event, emphasizing the historic significance of the event and applauding the players for bringing honor to Punjab and India.

The Indian men's hockey team achieved their second consecutive bronze at the Olympics , a feat that hadn't been accomplished in 52 years, with a 2-1 victory over Spain. Mann praised the team's impressive performance, which he watched closely.

Mann said he watched every hockey match of the Indian team and added the spectacular performance by these players have made everyone feel proud.

He described winning the medal as a dream come true for the country and commended Harmanpreet Singh for his leadership.

Mann highlighted the revival of Indian hockey, seeing it reclaim its former glory. He also proposed organizing a four-nation hockey tournament in Mohali in November and planned to discuss this with Indian hockey authorities.

The chief minister reiterated the state government's dedication to promoting sports and emphasized their commitment to leaving no stone unturned in this endeavor.

Mann announced that the third edition of 'Kheda Watan Punjab Dian,' starting on August 28, would serve as a catalyst for promoting sports within Punjab. He also revealed plans to develop specific sports clusters: football in Mahilpur, boxing in Sangrur, hockey in Jalandhar, athletics in Ludhiana, and other areas.

He mentioned additional incentives for medal-winning players, including jobs, and potential promotions in their current roles.

In a conversation with players about their Olympic experiences, Mann announced that these athletes would become brand ambassadors for the state's efforts against drug abuse.