Hoshiarpur/Daljeet Ajnoha/July 8 : Arjuna Award recipient, former Superintendent of Police (SP), and renowned football player of his time, Gurdev Singh Gill, a resident of Village khairar in Hoshiarpur district, shared his views during a special interaction with senior journalist Daljeet Ajnoha.
Speaking during the interview, Gurdev Singh Gill expressed his pride and gratitude after the football ground in his ancestral village, Netvilas, was named in his honour. He described it as one of the proudest moments of his life and said that such recognition motivates him to continue inspiring the younger generation.
Gill said he has always encouraged students and young athletes to succeed through hard work, discipline, and dedication. According to him, there is no substitute for consistent effort in achieving success.
Expressing concern over the growing menace of drug abuse among Punjab’s youth, he said it is unfortunate that many young people are falling victim to addiction. He emphasized that sports can play a vital role in steering youth away from drugs by providing them with purpose, discipline, and positive opportunities.
He also pointed out that many young Punjabis migrate abroad in search of employment. If adequate employment opportunities and better sports infrastructure were created within Punjab, more young people would choose to stay, contribute to the state’s development, and build successful careers at home.
Appealing to the government, Gurdev Singh Gill urged policymakers to provide greater support, facilities, and opportunities for talented athletes. He said that empowering young sportspersons would not only help them bring glory to Punjab and India but would also play a significant role in eliminating the social evil of drug abuse.
