Chandigarh: The Punjab cabinet on Saturday approved a large-scale solar street lighting programme to cover 11,500 villages with nearly three lakh lights, while also giving its nod to host the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026 in the state for the first time.The cabinet cleared an opt-in solar street lighting scheme for gram panchayats across Punjab, citing advantages such as reliability, zero electricity cost and suitability for rural and remote areas. The project will involve installation of around three lakh solar streetlights in 11,500 villages, with 70% funding from the state government and a 30% contribution from participating gram panchayats.The scheme will cover new installations, maintenance, modern monitoring systems and prioritise public spaces as well as Scheduled Caste residential areas. Gram panchayats will have the flexibility to determine the number of lights required and may opt for installations with or without poles to reduce costs.The project will be implemented by the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) and rolled out in phases between June and October 2025. The government said faster deployment of modern street lighting would enhance women’s safety and inclusivity, while also contributing to environmental sustainability and improved living conditions in rural areas.Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026The cabinet also approved hosting the Men’s Asian Champions Trophy 2026 in Punjab, marking the first time the state will host the multi-nation international hockey tournament. An agreement has already been signed between the Punjab State Sports Council and Hockey India for the event.Despite Punjab’s rich legacy and contribution to Indian hockey, this will be the first occasion the prestigious tournament is being held in the state. The total estimated expenditure is around ₹25.40 crore, which includes upgrading infrastructure at the hockey stadia in Jalandhar and Mohali to make them suitable for international matches and live telecast.Finance minister Harpal Cheema said hosting the tournament will boost Punjab’s sports culture, infrastructure and international profile. “The Men’s Hockey Asian Champions Trophy 2026 will inspire youth to take up sports and offer a positive path away from drug abuse. The event will bring Punjab back to the centre stage of hockey, both nationally and internationally, helping restore its pristine sporting glory,” he said.
