Pb CM Mann felicitates Commonwealth medalists

chandigarh: Punjab became the first state in country by felicitating its Commonwealth contingent with cash prize as the Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday felicitated 23 sportspersons of Punjab who represented the country in recently concluded Games at Birmingham with cash prize worth Rs. 9.30 crore.

"This is a humble effort from our government to recognise the massive efforts out by all you to bring laurels for the country," the Chief Minister said while addressing the gathering at Municipal Bhawan.

Interacting with the players, the Chief Minister reiterated the firm commitment of state government to restore the pristine glory of the state in field of sports. He said that strenuous efforts are already being made by the state in this regard. Bhagwant Mann said that the sportsmen of the state are being honoured with cash prizes to encourage them and other budding players to excel in sports.

The Chief Minister asserted that our sportsmen have brought laurels for the state and now the onus lies on the state government to recognise these achievements.

Highlighting the dire need of sports infrastructure to match at world level, the Chief Minister said that we have inherited natural talent to excel in sports and given a chance these players will conquer the world with grit.

However, Bhagwant Mann said that for this world class infrastructure coupled with professional coaches, diet and other facilities are required.

The Chief Minister also recalled the names of hockey legends such as Balbir Singh Senior, Surjeet Singh, Dhanraj Pillay, Gagan Ajit Singh and others who had brought fame for the country in Hockey.