BAS briefs Sports minister on badminton initiatives in Sikkim

GANGTOK, : Badminton Association of Sikkim (BAS) president Jacob Khaling along with the executive members on Saturday called on State Sports minister Raju Basnet at his official residence to discuss initiatives for promoting badminton in the State.

During the meeting, the BAS president briefed the Sports minister about the newly constituted BAS executive body and presented the annual calendar of events. He highlighted the efforts of district and other various BAS-affiliated associations in promoting badminton among children across Sikkim. These associations, in collaboration with district associations, affiliated clubs and the Sports & Youth Affairs department, have been organizing regular coaching camps and training programs for students State-wide.

Khaling also shared details of the 1st Sikkim State Inter-School Badminton Tournament, organized by BAS.

The tournament will be conducted at the district level across all six districts of Sikkim, with winners and runners-up advancing to the State-level competition in Gangtok. The BAS, during its Annual General Meeting, resolved to make this inter-school tournament an annual event to foster young talent.

Additionally, the BAS president proposed basic and advanced coaching programs for Physical Education teachers of Education departments to keep them updated with modern training techniques, the release mentions.

The Sports minister commended BAS for its efforts in promoting badminton and organizing the state-wide tournament. He assured full support, both personally and on behalf of the Sports & Youth Affairs department, to ensure the success of these initiatives.

The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthen sports development in Sikkim, with a focus on nurturing young athletes and enhancing grassroots-level training, the release mentions.