With thin participation, sports take a backseat in Jalandhar

As Khedan Watan Punjab Diyan entered its third day today, the participation rate was expected to improve, but to no avail. With a few number of teams participating in the events held across the district, the turnout remained meagre.

On second day of the games, in Mehatpur block, four teams took part in the under-17 football event. In Nakodar, only one team showed up for the football (girls) under-21 competition. In football (boys) under-21 category, two teams participated and in the under-14 and under-17 categories, three and four teams participated, respectively.

In circle style kabaddi that was held in Lohian, four teams participated in the under-14 and under-17 categories each, and three teams took part in the under-21 category.

In Rurka Kalan block, three teams participated in the football under-14 and under-17 categories each and in the under-21 category, four teams got registered.

It seems like sports have taken a backseat in Jalandhar from where many legendary players rose to eminence because of their contribution to the discipline they represented, bringing fame to the district.

Poor turnout of players was also witnessed during the college wing trials that were held recently. The grounds were almost empty and coaches were seen waiting for more players to come.

A senior coach said the scenario had completely changed in the last few years. “The urge to go abroad is another reason behind the less turnout,” he said.

Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Aggarwal said he held talks with the Education and Sports Departments and assured that the participation would increase in the coming days.

“Everyone should participate and the best ones will be selected for the district-level games,” he said.

In the evening, sports department released official figure of the participation on the third day. The release stated that 1,700 players took part in the games on Thursday.