India, Sept. 7 -- The fourth edition of the Punjab government's Khedan Wattan Punjab Diyan-2026 began in Bathinda on Sunday, with around 10 lakh participants expected to take part in competitions across 39 sports and four para-sports.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann inaugurated the event at Shaheed Bhagat Singh Stadium. The competitions will include participants from nine age groups, ranging from 14 years to above 70 years, and will conclude in Patiala on November 29. The government has announced Rs.12.50 crore in prize money, including cash awards for veteran participants for the first time.

The four para-sports included this year are athletics, powerlifting, badminton and wheelchair basketball. Tennis-ball cricket for boys and girl...