The News Freedom
Chandigarh, February 4
In a significant move, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann distributed appointment letters for the positions of PCS (Punjab Civil Services) and PPS (Punjab Police Services) to 11 accomplished athletes today. The recipients included nine hockey players, one cricketer, and one short put athlete.
The Chief Minister disclosed the names of the newly appointed PPS officers, which comprise Harmanpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, Varun Kumar, Shamsher Singh, and Dilpreet Singh from the field of hockey, Harmanpreet Kaur from cricket, and Tejinder Toor from short put. Additionally, four hockey players, namely Rupinder Pal Singh, Simranjit Singh, Hardik Singh, and Gurjant Singh, have been appointed as PCS officers. Notably, these nine hockey players secured a Bronze medal for the country in the field of hockey, ending a 40-year medal drought.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Mann highlighted the onset of ‘reverse migration’ in the state, emphasizing that Punjab is witnessing a return of youth from abroad seeking government employment. He predicted a similar trend in the field of sports, anticipating that top athletes from other states would vie for positions within the Punjab government. Mann expressed confidence that Punjab is on track to becoming a leading state across various domains.
The Chief Minister underscored Punjab’s dual role as the nation’s breadbasket and a cradle of exceptional athletes. He praised the state’s sports legacy and the consistent contributions of its players to the country’s glory. Mann acknowledged Punjab’s agricultural prowess, producing 99% of the nation’s paddy, while also recognizing the state’s crucial role in defending the nation’s borders and its historical significance in the freedom struggle.
However, Mann lamented the neglect of the state by his predecessors, accusing them of exploitation and indifference towards the well-being of the people and the promotion of sports.
Mann reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to honoring athletes, drawing parallels between awarding Bharat Ratna to martyrs and providing jobs to accomplished players. He asserted that such recognitions contribute to the prestige of both awards.
Looking ahead, Mann outlined the state government’s plans to integrate sports and anti-drug campaigns, emphasizing the importance of keeping youth engaged to counter the menace of drugs. He assured an annual recruitment drive for 2100 posts in the Punjab Police, aiming to inspire the youth to strive for positions in the elite force.
The Chief Minister pledged the government’s dedication to offering 100% employment to players excelling in international events, viewing sports as a pivotal tool in the battle against drugs. Mann envisioned a transformed landscape where youth actively participate in the state’s socioeconomic development through sports.
Emphasizing the promotion of a sports culture, Mann highlighted the government’s efforts in providing world-class facilities and financial assistance to athletes. He envisioned these initiatives as instrumental in fostering a new generation of athletes excelling in both national and international competitions.