The Chief Minister said the stadiums in Jalandhar and Mohali should be upgraded with the latest facilities in line with international standards. | Photo Credit: Sportstar

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann on Saturday reviewed preparations for hosting the Asian Champions Trophy hockey tournament later this year and directed officials to complete arrangements well ahead of schedule.

Chairing a meeting, Mann instructed officials to finish all infrastructure and organisational work before September, according to an official release.

He directed that an organising committee comprising experts, players and other stakeholders be formed to ensure timely execution of the arrangements. He also approved the formation of a high-powered committee of senior officers to regularly monitor ongoing work at Jalandhar and Mohali.

Mann said the stadiums in Jalandhar and Mohali should be upgraded with the latest facilities in accordance with international standards.

“Every work related to this prestigious tournament must be completed well before September so that no stone is left unturned in making this event a huge success,” Mann said.

Assuring full support to Hockey India, Mann said Punjab was committed to the successful organisation of the first tournament of this scale in the state’s history.

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“Punjab has always been the nursery of hockey, and hosting such an international tournament on our soil will further inspire our youth to connect with sports fields,” Mann said.

He said all necessary arrangements related to security, logistics and player facilities would be made for the smooth conduct of the championship.

The top six teams will compete in the Asian Champions Trophy. Mann said Punjab had got the opportunity to host the international event for the first time.

“Despite strong Punjabi representation in the sport over the decades, Punjab had never hosted a major international hockey tournament until now. This championship is a dream come true for the state,” he said.

Published on May 30, 2026