Sports ‘most lethal weapon’ against drugs: Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann

Ludhiana: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday described sports as the “most lethal weapon” against the drug menace and announced that the state government will increase the spots budget in the forthcoming fiscal year.

Addressing a gathering at the Kila Raipur Rural Olympics, Mann said the state is prompting sports to channelise the energy of the youth in a positive direction. He noted that stadiums are being constructed in every village across Punjab, adding that it is a matter of pride that local sportspersons are winning medals at national and international events.

The Chief Minister highlighted the resumption of bullock cart races, a major attraction of the fair, after 13 years. He attributed the revival to legislative changes made by his government.

“The ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2025, was unanimously passed in the Punjab Vidhan Sabha on July 11, 2025, paving the way for the resumption of these races,” Mann said. He added that following the amendment, a heritage sport event was held at village Mehma Singh Wala in Ludhiana on July 29, 2025.

Mann said the games, popularly known as the “Mini Olympics” or “Rural Olympics”, reflect the state’s rural culture and heritage.