Punjab Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema announced a substantial budget of ₹1,793 crore (approximately $216 million USD) for sports, targeting the dual goals of eradicating drug abuse and fostering youth development. This announcement was made during the inauguration of the new campus of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University in Siddhuwal, Punjab, India. Cheema emphasized the need for improved sports infrastructure, citing that past governments allocated no more than ₹150 crore for sports, which contributed to youth drifting towards drugs. He highlighted the government's efforts in creating 66,000 jobs over the last four years and noted a decline in passport applications, indicating youth confidence in building their future in Punjab. The government has also successfully reduced its debt-to-GDP ratio by 3%, thanks to increased revenue from GST, stamp registration, and excise duties. These initiatives are part of the government's vision for a more vibrant and prosperous Punjab.