Agriculture Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian inaugurates mega rural sports festival
The 86th edition of the Kila Raipur Rural Olympics-2026 commenced with immense enthusiasm and grandeur on Tuesday in Ludhiana district, marking the much-awaited revival of the iconic bullock cart races after a 12-year hiatus.
The prestigious rural sporting event was inaugurated by Punjab Cabinet Minister Gurmeet Singh Khuddian at the stadium in Kila Raipur village. The return of the world-famous bullock cart races attracted massive crowds, with spectators arriving from across Punjab and neighbouring states to witness the thrilling spectacle that reflects the state’s rich rural heritage.
Gurmeet Singh Khuddian inaugurates Kila Raipur Rural Olympics
Accompanied by MLA Jiwan Singh Sangowal and Dr KNS Kang, Minister Khuddian underlined the deep cultural and historical significance of the event. He credited Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann for facilitating the revival through the enactment of the Punjab Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2025.
The amendment introduced stringent safety standards for animals, resolved legal hurdles, and enabled the resumption of the traditional races.
The Minister expressed confidence that the Kila Raipur Rural Olympics continues to strengthen Punjab’s sporting culture and provide a platform to discover hidden talent from rural areas. Highlighting the government’s support for athletes, he said cash awards for Olympic and international medal winners have been significantly enhanced, while several medalists have been appointed to prestigious positions in the Punjab Civil Services (PCS) and Punjab Police Services (PPS).
Bullock cart race in action at Kila Raipur Games
He further stated that nearly 64,000 government jobs have been provided purely on merit, ensuring transparency and fairness in recruitment. The Minister also highlighted major infrastructure milestones, including projects to construct and upgrade around 40,000 kilometres of roads across the state.
Additionally, he said the government has provided 600 units of free electricity per household over the past four years, often resulting in zero power bills for many families.
Announcing further support for the region, the Minister allocated ₹30 lakh for the local veterinary hospital to enhance livestock healthcare services.
Among others present on the occasion were Additional Deputy Commissioner Amarjit Bains, SDM Jasleen Kaur Bhullar, District Sports Officer Kuldeep Chugh, and representatives of the Kila Raipur Sports Society.
The three-day festival, running until February 19, features the much-celebrated return of the bullock cart races along with a vibrant lineup of traditional sporting events including kabaddi, hockey, athletics, cycling, and tug-of-war. The revival of the iconic races has generated widespread excitement, promising a spectacular showcase of strength, speed and Punjab’s enduring rural pride. 
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Ekjot Singh
Special Correspondent covering governance, public policy, and development for Punjab Today.
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