Waiting to receive coveted trophy: Sandesh Jhingan

Deepankar Sharda

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, August 29

In a proud moment for the city, local lad Sandesh Jhingan was conferred with the Arjuna Award, while Panjab University lifted the Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy for the second consecutive time on National Sports Day today.

The virtual award ceremony for the region was held at the UT Secretariat Building in Sector 9 here today. Though players were only awarded certificates, the trophies are likely to be awarded later by the President in New Delhi.

Other achievers hailing from city

Olympian rower Manjeet Singh, who represented the Chandigarh Rowing Association (CRA) during his initial days, and boxer Manish Kaushik, a former student of GGDSD College, Sector 32, were also awarded on Saturday. CRA Secretary Rajiv Sharma congratulated Singh, whereas Rajinder Mann, secretary, Chandigarh Amateur Boxing Association, congratulated Kaushik.

“Initially, my dream was only to get into the national team. But you set different goals as you grow up, and the Arjuna Award was one of those. As players, we need to stay hungry. I dedicate this award to my family, brothers and well-wishers. I am waiting for the day to get the coveted trophy,” said Jhingan, who is the 27th footballer from the country to bag this award. Jhingan is the first footballer born and brought up in the city to win the award.

Panjab University Vice-Chancellor Prof Raj Kumar attended the function on behalf of the university. The PU won the trophy for the second consecutive time after a gap of 25 years. The trophy, which was already with the university, was displayed at its gymnasium hall later today.

“I want to congratulate everyone for making this happen. This trophy is dedicated to our players and coaches,” said the Vice-Chancellor. Besides Jhingan, Kuldeep Singh Bhullar, Kuldeep Handoo, Ajit Singh, Krishan Kumar Hooda, Lovlina Borgohain, Romesh Pathania and Shiv Singh were also awarded in Chandigarh.

Punjab Sports Minister to honour players

Punjab Sports and Youth Services Minister Rana Gurmit Singh Sodhi on Saturday announced to honour state players, who achieved the National Sports Award, on September 14 in Chandigarh. Akashdeep Singh, Kuldeep Singh Bhullar, Ajit Singh, Manpreet Singh, Manjit Singh, Sukhwinder Singh, Lakha Singh and Colonel Sarfaraz Singh were also awarded on Saturday.