MP Arora Meets Coaches & Players; Inaugurates Sports Equipment Worth Rs.15 Lakh

Ludhiana, May 6, 2025: Rajya Sabha MP Sanjeev Arora, a passionate sports enthusiast himself, held a detailed meeting with officials of the District Sports Department, sports coaches, and athletes in Ludhiana on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Arora discussed ways to further strengthen sports infrastructure and enhance sports-related activities in the region. He said, "Under the dynamic leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the Punjab government is deeply committed to promoting sports across the state. The state government is taking concrete steps to enhance sports infrastructure, provide better training facilities, and create more opportunities for youth to engage in athletic activities. The aim is not only to nurture talent at the grassroots level but also to establish Punjab as a leading state in the field of sports."

He interacted directly with sportspersons and coaches to understand their demands and challenges. Assuring timely action, Arora committed to addressing all genuine concerns. He also promised to take up the matter with the state government to create more vacancies under the sports quota, ensuring medal-winning athletes receive due recognition and placement. “There is a need to give a further boost to medal-winning sportspersons, which will inspire more youth to participate in sports,” he added.

On the occasion, Arora inaugurated sports equipment worth Rs.15 lakh related to Athletics and Judo, supplied by the head office of the Sports Department. "It gives me great pleasure to inaugurate this equipment. This initiative reflects our government's commitment to strengthening grassroots sports and ensuring our athletes have access to high-quality resources to train and compete effectively," he remarked.

Also present at the meeting were District Sports Officer (DSO) Kuldeep Chugh and AAP Ludhiana District Sports Wing President Sonia Alag. Chugh appreciated Arora for facilitating the allocation of around Rs.20 lakh for washroom renovation and Rs.5 lakh for repairing years-old electrical wiring at the sports complex. He said, “These funds have been made available through the District Mineral Foundation (DMF) on MP Arora’s persuasion.”

Chugh further informed that a proposal for Rs.90 lakh for renovating the Sports Stadium is in the pipeline, again due to Arora's continued efforts and follow-up. He expressed hope that the funds would be released soon to begin the much-needed work.

Arora also extended his best wishes to female athletes departing for Bihar to participate in the seventh edition of the Khelo India Youth Games. He assured rewards for those who return with commendable performances.