Shahbaz Sharif approves Rs100 million grant for Pakistan Hockey Federation
The governing body of the national game had asked for an immediate release of funds.
Secretary PHF Rana Mujahid Ali thanked Shahbaz Sharif for the noble gesture. PHOTO: FILE
KARACHI:
Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced a grant of Rs 100 million for the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).
The governing body of the country's national sport had sought immediate release of funds to ensure revival of the game.
Speaking to The Express Tribune, Secretary PHF Rana Mujahid Ali welcomed the announcement. “The announcement by the chief minister is nothing less than restoring oxygen supply for the national game, we were desperate for funds and on the behalf of the entire hockey fraternity and players. I thank Shahbaz Sharif for this noble gesture, we will disclose our future plans in a press briefing tomorrow (Thursday)”.
Earlier in December, the PHF had requested that the government release Rs 300 million to cover their expenditure for this year.
They also asked that Rs 500 million be sanctioned for the sport in the annual federal budget, this year onwards.
The PHF saw a new set-up in November after the elections. It was lacking funds even to pay salaries. According to the PHF, they needed an immediate ‘bail-out package’.
The 'bail out package' stated that the PHF wants to focus on schools, colleges and universities. The proposal also included a programme for jobs assistance to players and promoting departmental hockey.
Chief Minister Punjab Shahbaz Sharif on Wednesday announced a grant of Rs 100 million for the Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF).
The governing body of the country's national sport had sought immediate release of funds to ensure revival of the game.
Speaking to The Express Tribune, Secretary PHF Rana Mujahid Ali welcomed the announcement. “The announcement by the chief minister is nothing less than restoring oxygen supply for the national game, we were desperate for funds and on the behalf of the entire hockey fraternity and players. I thank Shahbaz Sharif for this noble gesture, we will disclose our future plans in a press briefing tomorrow (Thursday)”.
Earlier in December, the PHF had requested that the government release Rs 300 million to cover their expenditure for this year.
They also asked that Rs 500 million be sanctioned for the sport in the annual federal budget, this year onwards.
The PHF saw a new set-up in November after the elections. It was lacking funds even to pay salaries. According to the PHF, they needed an immediate ‘bail-out package’.
The 'bail out package' stated that the PHF wants to focus on schools, colleges and universities. The proposal also included a programme for jobs assistance to players and promoting departmental hockey.