Chandigarh: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Thursday laid the foundation stone of a Rs 14.63 crore modern sports stadium in Sangrur, setting the tone for a decisive push to transform Punjab's youth landscape through sports, health, and discipline.

Positioned as both an infrastructure upgrade and a social intervention, the world-class facility coming up on 4.38 acres in Satouj will offer professional training and host a wide range of sports including Badminton, Handball, Judo, Netball, Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Gymnastics, Kabaddi and Karate.

Pushing sports as a direct counter to the drug menace, CM Mann underscored that expanding access to quality playgrounds alongside strong education systems is key to steering youth towards purpose, performance, and global achievement, while building a healthier Punjab.

Calling it a historic day for the region, Mann said, "It is a historic day for the region as this stadium is coming up at a cost of Rs 14.63 crore. This stadium will be constructed over an area of 4.38 acres, and the complex will host various sporting activities."

He added, "The stadium will have a 200-meter athletic track, pavilion for spectators and players and a multipurpose indoor sports hall."