By Our Correspondent
LAHORE: Punjab Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar chaired an important meeting of the Sports Department to review the Annual Development Schemes 2025-26, especialky about hockey truf, preparations for the National Games, and ongoing initiatives for the promotion of sports across the province.
During the meeting, the Provincial Minister announced that modern hockey turfs will be installed in all districts of Punjab where none currently exist, emphasizing that a state of “emergency” has been declared for the revival and promotion of hockey in the province.
The promotion of hockey is among the top priorities of the government, as it is our national game and a source of pride for our youth,” said Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar. He further stated that paddle games will be made accessible to the general public, adding that the paddle courts being constructed in Lahore, Sialkot, and Multan will soon be opened to the public.
The promotion of sports ensures the productive use of youth energy and contributes to the creation of a healthy society,” he said.
During the briefing, DG Sports Punjab informed the minister that the National Games will be held in Karachi from December 6 to 13, 2025, and that the selection process for Punjab’s best athletes is underway.
It was also reported that training camps will be organized across Punjab from November 24 to December 3 as part of the preparation plan. Minister Faisal Ayub Khokhar directed officials to ensure comprehensive preparations for Punjab’s strong performance in the National Games, stressing the importance of transparency and effective monitoring in all development projects.
He also instructed the concerned authorities to expedite the completion of the international standard Squash Complex. Currently, work is underway on 184 sports development schemes in Punjab, out of which 88 are in the execution phase,” he said, emphasizing the timely completion and efficient monitoring of all projects.
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The meeting was attended by Secretary Sports Muzaffar Khan Sial, DG Sports Khizer Afzal Chaudhry, Vice Chairman Malik Suleman, and other senior officials.
