Minister Harpal Cheema honours Asian Junior Gold Medallist Sehnoor Bawa, assures full Govt support
Babushahi Bureau
Dirba (Punjab), June 7, 2026:Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Sunday honoured young athlete Sehnoor Bawa for winning a gold medal in the relay event at the Under-20 Asian Athletics Championships held in Hong Kong, describing her achievement as a moment of pride for Punjab and the nation.
Cheema visited the athlete's residence in village Khadial, located in the Dirba Assembly constituency, and congratulated her and her family on the international success. He lauded Sehnoor's dedication and hard work, saying her accomplishment demonstrates the immense sporting talent emerging from Punjab's rural areas.
A resident of Sangrur district, Sehnoor developed an interest in athletics at a young age and has steadily risen through the ranks to earn international recognition. Her gold-medal performance at the Asian Junior Championships has brought laurels to both Punjab and India.
Speaking on the occasion, the Finance Minister said Sehnoor's success reflects the positive impact of the Punjab Government's efforts to promote sports and create opportunities for young athletes.
He noted that under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the state has been investing in sports infrastructure and athlete development programmes aimed at nurturing talent at the grassroots level.
Cheema expressed confidence that Sehnoor has the potential to represent India at the Olympics and other major international competitions in the future. He assured her that the Punjab Government would provide all possible assistance for her training, preparation and participation in upcoming events.
"The government will extend every support required for her sporting journey, including equipment, training facilities and financial assistance, so that she can continue to excel on the international stage," he said.
Congratulating Sehnoor's family, the Minister described her achievement as an inspiration for young athletes, particularly girls from rural backgrounds. He said her success proves that talent, when supported with determination and opportunity, can achieve global recognition.
Highlighting the government's focus on sports development, Cheema said efforts are underway to strengthen sports infrastructure across Punjab. He informed that a modern stadium is proposed in the village and that a state-of-the-art indoor stadium is being constructed in Dirba, where facilities for eleven sporting disciplines will be available under one roof.
The Minister also appreciated coach Jaspreet Singh for identifying Sehnoor's potential and guiding her development into an athlete capable of competing at the international level. He said coaches play a crucial role in shaping future champions and deserve recognition alongside successful athletes.
Among those present on the occasion were Pritam Singh Peetu, Chairman of Improvement Trust Sangrur, OSD Tapinder Singh Sohi, coach Jaspreet Singh, Chairman Harvinder Singh Chhajli, Sarpanch Labh Singh and several residents of the village.