Anurag Thakur opens BSF hockey turf ground in Jalandhar

Jalandhar, June 26 (IANS) The newly constructed state-of-the-art hockey turf ground at BSF campus here in Punjab was inaugurated by Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Anurag Thakur on Monday amid the presence of BSF Director General Nitin Agrawal.

During the inauguration, P.V. Rama Sastry, SDG (Western Command) Atul Fulzele, IG Border Security Force (BSF), Punjab Frontier, along with other BSF officials and sports icons were present.

The minister highlighted that the newly constructed stadium received all necessary approvals from the Hockey Federation of India, ensuring compliance with international standards.

He expressed his happiness for the support of the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, which has provided financial support for the development of the hockey turf ground, demonstrating the government's commitment for fostering sports infrastructure and development.

This is an asset for the Sports Authority of India, which will herald a new era of world class hockey infrastructure in the BSF and also for the Jalandhar area, a statement by the BSF said.

The Union minister spoke about the rich sports legacy of Punjab, which has produced exceptional athletes and contributed significantly to India’s sporting heritage.

He also acknowledged the sports legacy of the BSF, highlighting the organisation’s commitment in promoting sports and nurturing talents.

The minister discussed the government’s flagship programme, Khelo India, and its continued efforts to promote and nurture sporting talent across the country.

He also brought out the importance of hockey as a national game. BSF sports persons have the privilege of receiving three Padma Shri and 17 Arjun Awards in various disciplines and many BSF sportsmen have represented India in various national and international sporting events.