Experts from diverse fields discussed the impact of Punjabi traditional games and their role in tackling the growing menace of drugs, claiming that while internationally recognised modern sports are essential for global identity, traditional games build foundational strength and foster community bonding.“Our traditional games are not merely physical activities but a living heritage of Punjab’s history. These games symbolise the ‘chardi kala’ (resilient and ever-optimistic spirit) of the Punjabi psyche. Preserving and promoting them is our necessity,” said Vice-Chancellor of Maharaja Bhupinder Singh Punjab Sports University, Prof Pushpinder Singh Gill, while presiding over a national seminar on Punjabi traditional games.Prof Gill stated that while internationally recognised modern sports are essential for global identity, indigenous traditional games build foundational strength and foster community bonding that no modern sport can match. “The Punjab Government’s initiative to revive bullock cart races at Kila Raipur is a significant step towards promoting heritage sports”, he said.Prof Gill said efforts would be made to formally include traditional games in academic curricula so that children from villages across Punjab feel as proud learning Gatka as participating in Olympic sports. He stressed that institutional measures are needed to secure the future of these games.Renowned cardiologist Dr. Manmohan Singh, the chief guest, said traditional games connect people with their roots. “Sports are not just about winning, but about learning. While modern organised sports are becoming increasingly complex and expensive, traditional games remain simple, affordable and effective,” he said.Punjabi scholar and writer Gurbhajan Gill said that in the age of artificial intelligence and globalisation, which have deeply influenced human life, “preserving our heritage, including traditional games, must remain a priority.“To make Punjab drug-free, there is a need to develop a strong sports culture. The blind race of capitalism has distanced us from our rich traditional games, and this issue requires serious reflection. Collective efforts to preserve Punjab’s cultural values and traditions is the need of the hour”, he said.Prominent folklorist Dr Gurmeet Singh said traditional games carry deep cultural meanings through their activities, gestures, expressions and vocabulary, reflecting emotions rooted in the human subconscious.