Punjab to have World Kabaddi League in February

CHANDIGARH - In a bid to revive traditional sports, the Punjab government is all set to organise a ‘World Kabaddi League’ in February 2010 featuring top teams.

“There will be a record prize money of Rs.10 million (Rs.1 crore) and Rs. 5 million (Rs. 50 lakh) and Rs. 2.5 million (Rs. 25 lakh) to the first and second runners-up. It would be the biggest tournament of kabaddi,” said the official spokesperson of Punjab here Tuesday.

“The purpose behind giving highest ever prize money in this sport is to attract the world’s best teams. It would give exposure to our players, and they can have the feeling of international competition,” he added.

Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal said: “It is unfortunate that traditional games like kabaddi, wrestling, hockey and football are neglected and too much prominence is given to cricket and tennis. We have decided to encourage traditional games and nurture our players to compete in international meets.”

Badal said that 1,233 villages have been short listed in 14 blocks under the Panchayat Yuva Krida Aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA) to hunt for new talent in traditional games. Basic sports infrastructure and other grants will be provided to these villages to promote talent.