More than 3,400 female athletes from nine divisions of Punjab gathered at Lahore’s Nishtar Park Sports Complex in February 2026, creating history in Pakistan’s sports landscape. The Khelta Punjab CM Punjab Pink Games 2026 stands as the largest women-exclusive sporting event ever organized in the province, transforming how Punjab nurtures and celebrates its female athletic talent. This comprehensive guide walks you through everything about this landmark initiative—from understanding what the Pink Games are, to eligibility criteria, the complete application process, sports disciplines, prize money structure, and key results.
Key Takeaways
- Record-Breaking Participation: Over 3,400 female athletes competed in the 2026 edition, making it Punjab’s largest women’s sports event with participants from all nine divisions.
- Substantial Financial Rewards: Winners share a prize pool of Rs 7 million distributed at the closing ceremony, with an additional Rs 20 million announced by the Chief Minister for top performers.
- Monthly Scholarships for Medalists: Gold medalists qualify for monthly scholarships up to Rs 100,000 through the Punjab Sports Endowment Fund, ensuring long-term financial support.
- Grassroots Selection Process: Athletes must clear mandatory divisional trials based on strict merit, with a non-departmental policy ensuring focus on genuine grassroots talent.
- Future Expansion Announced: The games will expand to tehsil and union council levels, with Punjab’s first Sports City launching in 2027.
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Khelta Punjab CM Punjab Pink Games | How To Apply
Table Of Contents
What Exactly Are the Khelta Punjab CM Punjab Pink Games 2026?
The Khelta Punjab CM Punjab Pink Games 2026 is a flagship women-focused sports initiative of the Government of Punjab, organized under the auspices of the Youth Affairs and Sports Department. This event represents the province’s strongest commitment to women empowerment through sports, providing a competitive platform exclusively for female athletes.
Defining the “Pink Games”: A Women-Only Sports Initiative
The term “Pink Games” specifically denotes a sporting competition designed exclusively for women and girls. Unlike regular multi-sport events that include both genders, the Pink Games create a safe, encouraging environment where female athletes can compete without societal or cultural barriers. The pink branding symbolizes both femininity and strength, reinforcing the message that women belong in every arena—including sports traditionally dominated by men.
Who Inaugurated the CM Punjab Pink Games 2026?
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated the Khelta Punjab Pink Games 2026 on February 11 at the Punjab Stadium, Nishtar Park Sports Complex. During the ceremony, an athlete from each division carried the Pink Games torch, completed a stadium lap, and jointly lit the ceremonial flame. Olympian Faiza Riaz led the traditional march past while contingents from all divisions presented a vibrant parade.
Which Department Organized the Khelta Punjab Pink Games?
The Youth Affairs and Sports Department Punjab, working through the Punjab Sports Board, served as the primary organizing body. Key figures behind the successful execution include:
- Provincial Minister for Sports Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar
- Director General Sports Punjab Khizar Afzaal Chaudhry
- Secretary Sports Punjab Muhammad Ali
- Director Sports Rana Nadeem Anjum
Where Were the Pink Games 2026 Held?
All competitions took place at the Nishtar Park Sports Complex in Lahore, Pakistan’s largest sports facility. Specific venues within the complex included:
- Punjab Stadium: Opening ceremony, athletics, rugby finals
- National Hockey Stadium: All hockey matches
- Gymnasium Hall: Badminton, table tennis, closing ceremony
- Elite Training Center: Karate, taekwondo, weightlifting
- Adjacent grounds: Volleyball, basketball, archery
What Is the History and Evolution of the Pink Games?
The Pink Games debuted in 2024 with over 1,250 players and officials from universities across Punjab. The 2026 edition represents a massive expansion:
- 2024 Edition: 1,250+ participants, university-level focus
- 2026 Edition: 3,400+ athletes and officials, inter-division competitions, participants from all nine divisions
What Is the “Year of Youth” Initiative by CM Maryam Nawaz?
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz declared 2026 as the “Year of Youth” in Punjab. This initiative encompasses multiple programs aimed at youth development, with the Pink Games serving as a cornerstone event. The Year of Youth framework includes expanded sports activities, skills development programs, educational scholarships, and increased sports infrastructure investment.
What Is the Main Objective of the Pink Games?
The Khelta Punjab CM Punjab Pink Games 2026 serves multiple strategic objectives beyond simply organizing competitions. Each objective contributes to a broader vision of women’s empowerment and sports development.
How Do the Pink Games Empower Women in Punjab?
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz described participating athletes as the “Super Daughters of Super Punjab,” emphasizing that women can excel in every field. The empowerment objectives include:
- Breaking gender stereotypes in traditionally male-dominated sports like boxing, weightlifting, and rugby
- Providing visible role models for young girls across Punjab
- Demonstrating that merit and talent have no gender
- Creating safe, professional sporting environments where women can compete with dignity
Identifying and Nurturing Grassroots Talent
The games function as a talent identification pipeline for national and international representation. Director General Sports Khizar Afzaal confirmed that several talented athletes identified through the Pink Games will receive training to win laurels for Pakistan internationally. The selection process deliberately excludes departmental and professional players to ensure genuine grassroots discovery.
Promoting a Healthy and Active Lifestyle
The initiative actively encourages young people to move away from mobile screens and into playing fields. By creating excitement around women’s sports, the government hopes to inspire lifelong physical activity habits among Punjab’s female population.
Fostering Inter-Division Harmony and Healthy Competition
Athletes from all nine divisions—Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, Rawalpindi, Bahawalpur, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Sahiwal, and DG Khan—competed together, building bridges across regional lines. The division-based structure creates healthy rivalry while uniting participants under the Punjab identity.
Who Can Participate? Eligibility and Age Limit for Khelta Punjab
Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial before applying for any future edition of the Pink Games. The selection process follows strict, transparent guidelines.
Is There an Age Limit for Participating in Khelta Punjab?
Yes, a clear age limit applies. Athletes must be Under-21, meaning born on or after January 1, 2006. This age restriction ensures the games focus on young, developing talent rather than established senior athletes.
Is There a Swimming Competition for Younger Girls?
A special Pink Swimming Championship caters to Under-16 girls, allowing younger athletes to participate through open registration. This category provides early exposure to competitive swimming for girls who may not yet qualify for the senior age group.
What Is the Residency Requirement for the Pink Games?
Athletes must be permanent residents of the division they represent. For example, athletes competing for Lahore Division must belong to its constituent districts:
- Lahore
- Kasur
- Sheikhupura
- Nankana Sahib
Similar residency requirements apply to all nine divisions.
Who Is NOT Eligible to Participate?
The organizers enforce a strict non-departmental policy. Ineligible categories include:
- Professional players employed by government departments
- Athletes contracted with sports organizations
- Stipend holders from departmental sports programs
- Athletes who have represented national teams in international competitions
This policy ensures the Pink Games remain focused on grassroots talent rather than already-established athletes.
What Documents Are Required for the Trials?
Participants must bring original documents for age and identity verification:
- For athletes 18 and above: Original CNIC
- For athletes under 18: Original B-Form
- Attested Family Registration Certificate (FRC)
- Two recent passport-size photographs
- School or college ID (if applicable)
How Many Sports Disciplines Were Featured in the 2026 Edition?
The 2026 Pink Games featured competitions across 16 sports disciplines, with some divisions also participating in additional events like cycling.
Which Sports Are Included in the CM Punjab Pink Games?
The complete list of sports disciplines includes:
| Sport Category | Sport Name |
|---|---|
| Athletics | Track and field events |
| Racquet Sports | Badminton, Table Tennis, Padel Tennis |
| Team Ball Games | Basketball, Volleyball, Rugby |
| Combat Sports | Boxing, Karate, Taekwondo, Wushu |
| Strength Sports | Weightlifting, Mas-Wrestling |
| Outdoor Team Sports | Hockey |
| Mind Sports | Chess |
| Precision Sports | Archery |
Are There Cricket Competitions in the Pink Games?
Cricket was included in the 2026 edition, with DG Sports Khizar Afzaal distributing prizes at cricket events. However, cricket was not part of the original 16-discipline list, indicating possible expansion beyond the core sports.
Are There Any Indoor Sports in the Khelta Punjab Event?
Yes, multiple indoor sports featured prominently:
- Badminton and table tennis at Gymnasium Hall
- Karate and taekwondo at Elite Training Center
- Chess and weightlifting at indoor facilities
- Basketball at indoor courts
Is There a Swimming Competition in the CM Punjab Pink Games?
Yes, a dedicated Pink Swimming Championship for U-16 girls was organized alongside the main games, with open registration allowing broader participation.
What Is Padel Tennis and Why Was It Introduced?
Padel tennis represents one of the new sports disciplines introduced in the Pink Games. It is a racquet sport combining elements of tennis and squash, played on a smaller enclosed court. Its inclusion reflects the government’s effort to introduce modern, globally popular sports to Pakistani women.
What Is the Total Prize Money and Benefits for the Pink Games?
Financial rewards for Pink Games athletes are substantial, reflecting the government’s commitment to valuing women’s sports performance.
How Much Is the Total Prize Money for the Pink Games?
Two separate prize pools were announced:
- Rs 7 million distributed immediately at the closing ceremony among winning teams and athletes
- Rs 20 million announced by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for top-performing players
What Is the Scholarship Amount for Gold Medalists?
The Punjab Sports Endowment Fund provides monthly scholarships to top performers in three categories:
- Platinum Category: Rs 100,000 per month
- Gold Category: Rs 75,000 per month
- Silver Category: Rs 50,000 per month
These scholarships ensure sustained financial support beyond one-time prize money, helping athletes continue their training and education.
Prize Money Breakdown by Sport
The initial Rs 7 million prize pool was distributed across sports disciplines as follows:
| Sport Discipline | Prize Money (Rs) |
|---|---|
| Archery | 300,000 |
| Athletics | 600,000 |
| Badminton | 300,000 |
| Basketball | 500,000 |
| Boxing | 400,000 |
| Chess | 50,000 |
| Hockey | 600,000 |
| Karate | 400,000 |
| Mas-Wrestling | 400,000 |
| Padel Tennis | 100,000 |
| Rugby | 500,000 |
| Table Tennis | 250,000 |
| Taekwondo | 500,000 |
| Volleyball | 500,000 |
| Weightlifting | 400,000 |
| Wushu | 400,000 |
What Other Facilities Are Provided to Athletes During the Games?
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz specifically directed authorities to ensure:
- High-quality accommodation for all outstation athletes
- Nutritious meals throughout the competition period
- Comprehensive medical facilities
- Safe transport between venues and accommodation
- Professional care and support staff
How to Apply for the CM Punjab Pink Games 2026: A Step-by-Step Guide
While the 2026 edition has concluded, understanding the application process helps athletes prepare for future editions.
Are Trials Mandatory for Selection in the Pink Games?
Yes, trials are absolutely mandatory. No athlete can participate in the main Pink Games without clearing divisional-level trials. This merit-based system ensures only the most talented athletes represent their divisions at the provincial level.
How Can I Register for the CM Punjab Pink Games?
Two registration methods are available:
Online Registration Method:
- Visit the official Khelta Punjab Portal
- Scan official QR codes provided on Sports Board Punjab’s social media
- Complete the online registration form with personal and sporting details
- Receive confirmation and trial assignment
Offline Registration Method:
- Contact your local Tehsil Sports Officer
- Visit the District Sports Office in your district headquarters
- Approach the Divisional Sports Officer for your division
- Complete manual registration forms with assistance from officials
Is Registration for the Pink Games Free?
Yes, registration is completely free. No fees are charged at any stage—from initial registration through trials to participation in the main event.
What Is the Trial Process for the Pink Games?
The trial process follows a structured timeline:
- Announcement: Sports Board Punjab announces trial dates division-wise
- Registration: Athletes register before specified deadlines
- Divisional Trials: Trials conducted at designated venues in each division
- Team Formation: Selection committees form divisional teams based on merit
- Provincial Event: Selected athletes compete in Lahore
Where Were the Divisional Trials Held?
Each division conducted trials at multiple venues. For example, Multan Division’s trial schedule included:
| Date | Sport | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| January 19 | Badminton | Govt Muslim High School, Multan |
| January 20 | Karate, Taekwondo, Wushu, Basketball | Divisional Sports Complex |
| January 21 | Athletics, Volleyball, Chess, Weightlifting | Football Ground / Gymnasium Hall |
| January 23 | Hockey | Multan Hockey Stadium |
| January 23 | Rugby, Mas-Wrestling | Divisional Sports Complex |
| January 23 | Table Tennis, Archery, Boxing | District Sports Complex, Khanewal |
| January 24 | Padel Tennis registration | Divisional Sports Office |
How Are Trials Conducted to Ensure Transparency?
The Punjab Sports Board implements multiple transparency measures:
- Supervision by qualified coaches and technical officials
- Presence of District Sports Officers during trials
- Clear eligibility verification before participation
- Published results and selected team lists
- Multiple focal persons monitoring each sport
Example: Lahore Division Weightlifting Trials
The Lahore Division weightlifting trials took place on January 20 at the Elite Training Center, Nishtar Park Sports Complex. Key details included:
- Start time: 11:00 AM
- Venue: Adjacent to Gymnasium Hall
- Supervision: Punjab Sports Board officials and District Sports Officer
- Eligibility verification: Original CNIC/B-Form and FRC mandatory
- Contact: Mr. Tanveer Abbas, DSO Lahore, +92 333 4501554
Can University Students Participate in the Pink Games?
Yes, university students meeting the age and residency criteria can participate. However, they must go through the same trial process as all other athletes and cannot receive direct entry based on university affiliation.
Khelta Punjab Pink Games 2026 Schedule and Live Updates
The five-day event followed a packed schedule from February 11-15, 2026.
What Were the Dates for the Khelta Punjab Pink Games 2026?
The main event ran for five days: February 11 to February 15, 2026.
Day-by-Day Competition Highlights
Day 1 (February 11): Opening Ceremony
- CM Maryam Nawaz inaugurates games at Punjab Stadium
- Torch lighting ceremony with athletes from all divisions
- March past led by Olympian Faiza Riaz
- Initial competitions begin across venues
Day 2 (February 12): 17 Sports in Action
- Archery final: Multan defeats Faisalabad
- Chess: Sargodha secures first position
- Table Tennis: Lahore beats Multan 3-0
- Hockey: Lahore crushes Gujranwala 12-0
- Athletics: Maryam Batool (DG Khan) wins 400m
- Shot put: Muazzama (Faisalabad) takes gold
Day 3 (February 13): Weightlifting and Combat Sports
- Weightlifting finals across eight weight categories
- Bahawalpur emerges overall weightlifting champion
- Karate competitions at Elite Training Centre
- Semifinals in multiple team sports
Day 4 (February 14): Finals Begin
- Hockey final: Lahore defeats Bahawalpur 5-0
- Rugby final: Bahawalpur stuns Lahore 12-5
- Basketball final: Lahore dominates Bahawalpur 37-5
- Volleyball final: Faisalabad beats Multan 2-0
- Cycling: Lahore wins all four events
Day 5 (February 15): Closing Ceremony
- Final medal tally announced
- Prize distribution by Sports Minister
- Rs 7 million cash prizes awarded
- Scholarships announced for top performers
Winners and Results: Which Division Won the Most Medals?
The competition concluded with clear winners across divisions and individual events.
Which Division Won the Khelta Punjab Pink Games 2026?
Lahore Division emerged as overall champions with an impressive medal haul:
- Total Medals: 35
- Gold Medals: 25
- Silver Medals: 10
Division-Wise Final Standings
| Position | Division | Gold | Silver | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st | Lahore | 25 | 10 | 35 |
| 2nd | Faisalabad | 9 | 16 | 25 |
| 3rd | Multan | 9 | 6 | 15 |
Weightlifting Results by Category
The weightlifting competition showcased exceptional talent across eight weight categories:
| Weight Category | Gold Medalist | Division |
|---|---|---|
| 48 kg | Muskam Sajjad | Gujranwala |
| 53 kg | Eman Fatime | Lahore |
| 58 kg | Maria Ghazanfar | Bahawalpur |
| 63 kg | Taqdees Qayoum | Sahiwal |
| 69 kg | Amsal Naseem | Gujranwala |
| 77 kg | Eman Fatime | Bahawalpur |
| 86 kg | Ayesha Zaheer | Faisalabad |
| +86 kg | Farheen Zahra | Bahawalpur |
Team Sports Finals Results
Hockey Final:
- Lahore 5-0 Bahawalpur
- Goals: Sharqa (3), Uswa Imran (1), Hira (1)
Rugby Final:
- Bahawalpur 12-5 Lahore
- Top performer: Muqadas Hussain (Bahawalpur)
Basketball Final:
- Lahore 37-5 Bahawalpur
- Top scorers: Soha Shahid (10), Amna Shakeel (8), Hadia (8)
Volleyball Final:
- Faisalabad 2-0 Multan
Major Announcements and the Future of Sports in Punjab
The Pink Games served as a platform for significant policy announcements affecting Punjab’s sports landscape.
Will the Pink Games Be Held at the Tehsil Level in the Future?
Yes, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced immediate expansion of the Pink Games to tehsil levels across Punjab. Future editions will further expand to union council levels, creating a pyramid structure where athletes can qualify from their local areas through tehsil and district competitions to reach the divisional and provincial levels.
What Is the CM Punjab Sports Endowment Fund?
The Punjab Sports Endowment Fund provides long-term financial support to outstanding athletes. Medalists from the Pink Games receive monthly scholarships from this fund:
- Platinum performers: Rs 100,000 monthly
- Gold category: Rs 75,000 monthly
- Silver category: Rs 50,000 monthly
What Is the Punjab Sports City Project?
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced the launch of Punjab’s first Sports City, with construction beginning in 2027. This world-class facility will provide:
- International-standard training venues
- Accommodation for athletes
- Multiple sports facilities under one complex
- Hosting capabilities for major international events
How Many New Sports Projects Are Being Launched?
The Punjab government is completing 184 sports projects within one year, including:
- Synthetic astro-turf hockey stadiums in every district
- Upgraded training facilities across divisions
- New playgrounds and sports grounds
- Revitalized existing sports infrastructure
Who Is the Current Sports Minister of Punjab?
Malik Faisal Ayub Khokhar serves as the Punjab Minister for Sports and Youth Affairs, playing a pivotal role in organizing the Pink Games and implementing the government’s sports vision.
Key Contacts and Official Resources
Where Can I Find the Official Schedule for Future Pink Games?
Monitor these official channels for announcements:
- Punjab Sports Board official website
- Sports Board Punjab Facebook page
- Local District Sports Officers
- Tehsil municipal offices
Who to Contact for Queries?
District Sports Officers serve as primary contact points. Example contact:
- Mr. Tanveer Abbas, District Sports Officer Lahore: +92 333 4501554
For other divisions, contact your respective Divisional Sports Office.
Official Resources
- Punjab Sports Board Website
- Khelta Punjab Portal
- Sports Board Punjab social media channels
- District Sports Offices across Punjab
Frequently Asked Questions About the Pink Games
Are the Pink Games open to girls from all provinces of Pakistan?
No, participation is primarily for residents of Punjab’s nine divisions. The games are a Punjab government initiative focused on developing talent within the province.
How many female athletes participated in the 2026 Pink Games?
Over 3,400 female athletes and officials participated, making it the largest women’s sports event in Punjab’s history.
What is the scholarship amount for gold medalists?
Gold medalists qualify for monthly scholarships ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 100,000 through the Punjab Sports Endowment Fund, depending on their performance category.
Is there an age limit for the Pink Games?
Yes, the primary category is Under-21 (born on or after January 1, 2006). A separate Under-16 category exists for swimming.
How can I register for the next Pink Games?
Registration opens through the official Khelta Punjab Portal and at local Tehsil, District, or Divisional Sports Offices when trials are announced.
What documents do I need for trials?
You need original CNIC (18+) or B-Form (under 18), attested Family Registration Certificate, domicile certificate, and two passport-size photographs.
Are professional players allowed to participate?
No, a strict non-departmental policy excludes professional players, departmental stipend holders, and athletes who have represented national teams.
Will there be Pink Games in 2027?
Yes, the games will continue and expand to tehsil and union council levels, with the 2027 edition expected to be even larger.
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