Bullock cart races return as ‘Rural Olympics’ set for Jan 30 in Ludhiana’s Kila Raipur.

Ludhiana: The world-renowned Kila Raipur Rural Olympics will make a high-stakes return this month, featuring the highly anticipated revival of bullock cart races after a prolonged hiatus.Deputy commissioner Himanshu Jain confirmed that the three-day sporting extravaganza will run from Jan 30 to Feb 1, with Punjab chief minister Bhagwant Singh Mann scheduled to attend. The inclusion of bullock cart races marks a significant cultural milestone for the region, following years of legal and regulatory hurdles regarding animal welfare.Strict Oversight for Animal WelfareTo ensure the races comply with modern legal standards, the district administration has established a high-powered committee. This body is tasked with enforcing strict adherence to the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (PCA) Act, 1960, the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2019, and the guidelines issued by the Animal Welfare Board of India."The preparations are going well, and there is immense excitement surrounding the restart of these races," said Colonel Surinder Singh Grewal, President of the Kila Raipur Sports Society. He urged bullock cart unions from the Majha, Doaba, and Malwa regions to participate while strictly following government regulations.A Packed Three-Day ScheduleThe games will feature a blend of traditional grit and modern athletics. The opening ceremony on Jan 30 will include performances by Nihang Singhs, Giddha, and Bhangra groups alongside hockey matches and 1500m finals Jan 31 will be for semi-finals in hockey, circle-style kabaddi, and long-jump finals. Feb 1 is for senior sprint events for men aged 65 to 80+, cycle races, and unique rural displays such as trolley loading/unloading. Bullock cart races will be scheduled daily, with the final heats taking place at 5pm on the closing day.Global Invitation and LogisticsThe administration has promised extensive arrangements to accommodate the thousands of spectators and global tourists expected to descend on the village. In addition to the sports, prominent Punjabi singers will provide daily entertainment. "We urge people to participate in large numbers to take the popularity of these games to new heights," deputy commissioner Jain said.Notice to participants says that4 entries for the bullock cart races must be submitted by 2pm on Jan 29. No late entries will be accepted.