Punjab Govt To Distribute Rs 32.05 Crore Among 87 Sportspersons At Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award Ceremony

Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann is set to honour 87 sportspersons with the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award during a grand ceremony on 24 May 2026. Along with the awards, athletes will receive cash prizes totalling Rs 32.05 crore, with special recognition reserved for national and international medal winners.

The event highlights a strong push by the Punjab government to support athletes from a wide range of sports. Officials plan to distribute the prize money among players who have brought medals to the state and the country. The programme aims to recognise consistent performers and give them encouragement for future competitions.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award ceremony and Punjab government support

Indian women’s cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur attends the ceremony as one of the honoured athletes. Harmanpreet told IANS, "When we returned after winning the ODI World Cup, the government had announced a cash reward for us, and we have come here to receive it." Harmanpreet describes the government’s backing as “an inspiring” support for players.

Harmanpreet says it feels positive to watch players from many sports meet on a common platform and receive honours together. Harmanpreet appreciates the wide support from the Punjab government and mentions being deeply thankful for the recognition of hard work and performance. Harmanpreet also links such awards with stronger motivation to perform better in future events.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award inspires wrestlers and other athletes

Wrestler Aditya Kundu, a gold medallist at the Commonwealth Championship and bronze medallist at the Asian Championship, also welcomes the initiative. Aditya says, "This is the first time we are receiving an award from the Chief Minister’s side, and we are very happy." Aditya calls the event a commendable attempt to bring athletes together and create a shared sense of achievement.

Aditya further suggests that similar functions should be organised every year or at least once in two years. Aditya believes regular ceremonies can provide steady encouragement to players across disciplines. According to Aditya, consistent recognition helps athletes stay focused on training and results at state, national and international levels.

Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award and improving facilities in Punjab

Archer Avneet Kaur, who also receives the Maharaja Ranjit Singh Award, expresses gratitude towards Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the entire Punjab government. Avneet stresses that such initiatives hold significant meaning for all sportspersons. Avneet adds that awards from the government continuously push athletes to improve performance, which supports long-term growth in their sporting journey.

Fencing player Jagmeet Kaur describes the event as “a wonderful step” for her sport and future performances. Jagmeet points out that sports facilities under the Punjab government’s supervision have improved compared to earlier years. Jagmeet believes these better facilities will help young athletes progress in Punjab, and succeed at national and international stages.