Government Commits ₹75 Lakh and Pledges to Revive Bullock Cart Races
Kila Raipur (Ludhiana), January 31
The much-awaited Kila Raipur Rural Olympics 2025 began with great enthusiasm on Friday. Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Tarunpreet Singh Sond inaugurated the games at the local stadium, marking the start of this prestigious sporting event.
Minister Sond highlighted the Punjab government’s commitment, under Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann’s leadership, to elevate sports in the state and reclaim its sporting glory. He announced a substantial budget of ₹75 lakh allocated for the Kila Raipur Rural Olympics, emphasizing its importance in promoting sports and nurturing athletes. He expressed confidence that the games will foster a thriving sports culture across Punjab and unearth talent from all corners of the state. He also mentioned the increased cash awards for athletes winning medals at the Olympics and other international competitions.
The Minister acknowledged the overwhelming response to the annual “Kheda Watan Punjab Diyan” event and announced the government’s intention to reinstate the popular bullock cart races at the Kila Raipur Rural Games. He stated that these races have been a significant attraction and that the government is considering issuing a notification to this effect, seeking the Chief Minister’s support.
Sond encouraged everyone to attend the games and witness the diverse talents showcased by participants of all ages. He praised the district administration, led by Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal, for the excellent arrangements made for the event and its participants.
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The opening day saw spirited competition in ten different sports, including men’s and women’s hockey, Kabaddi (NS) for girls (under 14 and under 17), 60m and 100m races for boys and girls, 1500m races for men and women, 400m race heats and finals, Kho-Kho, men’s volleyball, shooting, and various traditional rural games.
The Minister was welcomed at the stadium by Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal and other officials. The celebrations will continue with musical performances by Punjabi singers Preet Harpal (today), Virasat Sandhu (February 1), and Kulwinder Billa (February 2)
