Ludhiana: The third and final state-level phase of the Punjab govt’s flagship sports tournament, ‘Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan 2026’, will be held in Ludhiana from Nov 17 to 23 across two venues—Guru Nanak Stadium and the adjoining multipurpose hall.Over 2,000 boys, girls, and para-athletes from across Punjab are expected to participate in the concluding leg, which features athletics, fencing, and state-level para-sports competitions in athletics, badminton, and powerlifting. In a first for the tournament, wheelchair basketball has also been introduced this year.Confirming preparations for the week-long event, district sports officer Mandeep Kaushal said, “We are expecting a participation of more than 2000 athletes including all the age groups and events, however the exact number will be announced after the event is concluded. The department has done all the required tasks for the smooth flow of the event. Now the athletes will showcase their talents in their respective competitions.”According to Ludhiana sports department officials, the athletics and fencing competitions will span eight age categories: under-14, under-17, 21–30, 31–40, 40–50, 51–60, 61–70, and above 70.Highlighting the return of the games and the new para-sport addition, senior athletic coach Sanjeev Sharma said, “Last year the Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan games were postponed due to weather conditions, however, now this year, there will be exciting events as players from various districts are going to compete. A major attraction for this year will be the wheelchair basketball tournament for para athletes as this is introduced for the first time in Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan.”“Around three to four teams have already registered for the wheelchair basketball event and the total number of participating teams will be announced before a day of the event, which is Nov 22,” he added.
