Badminton Takes Center Stage in Arunachal Pradesh: State Championship Underway
Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh – August 9, 2024 – The Li-Ning 12th DorjeeKhandu Memorial State Badminton Championship 2025 officially began today at the Khelo India Indoor Stadium in Itanagar, marking a significant event for sports enthusiasts in Arunachal Pradesh. Over 500 athletes are competing in the five-day tournament,representing all 28 districts of the state,as well as the Sangey Lhaden Sports academy and Rajiv Gandhi University Sports Control Board.
The opening ceremony featured MLA Dr. Mohesh Chai, Advisor to the Minister of Health, Commerce & Industries, as Chief Guest, and MLA Laisam Simai of 51-Nampong as the Guest of Honor. Dr. Chai praised the dedication of the athletes and the organizers, emphasizing the importance of passion and discipline in sports. Simai highlighted the increasing popularity of badminton within the state and the championship’s role in nurturing emerging talent.
The Arunachal State Badminton Association (ASBA) is organizing the championship with support from the Badminton Association of India (BAI) and the Department of Sports. Matches are being held across various age categories, offering participants the prospect to compete for top honors and perhaps qualify for national-level events. This year’s event is especially significant as it continues to honor the legacy of Late Dorjee Khandu, the former Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, who was instrumental in promoting sports growth within the state. Khandu served as Chief Minister from 2007 until his passing in 2011.
The Khelo India Indoor Stadium,completed in 2023 at a cost of approximately ₹35 crore,provides a state-of-the-art facility for badminton and other indoor sports. The ASBA confirmed that prize money totaling ₹2.5 lakh will be awarded to the winners across all categories. The championship is expected to attract spectators from across the capital region and inspire a new generation of badminton players in Arunachal pradesh.
Stay updated on the championship results and highlights on Eastern Sentinel.
