Agartala, 8th August 2026: Chief Minister Prof. (Dr.) Manik Saha on Saturday inaugurated the 54th Tripura State Badminton Championship 2026 at the NSRCC Indoor Badminton Hall, stressing that success at the national and international levels is achievable through proper training, dedication and perseverance.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, the Chief Minister said a healthy sporting environment has been created in Tripura and that the state government is undertaking several initiatives to strengthen sports infrastructure and training facilities. He noted that these efforts are already producing athletes capable of competing at national and international levels.
Dr. Saha highlighted the role of the Tripura Badminton Association in promoting the sport, identifying emerging talent and nurturing skilled players. He said tournaments such as the state championship provide athletes with valuable opportunities to develop their abilities while generating greater enthusiasm among sports lovers.
The Chief Minister underlined the importance of sports in physical and mental development, saying regular participation promotes health, discipline, confidence, productivity and perseverance. Sports also teach players to accept victory and defeat with equanimity and remain resilient during difficult situations.
Referring to Tripura’s sporting achievements, Dr. Saha cited Olympian Padma Shri Dipa Karmakar as an inspiration for young athletes. He also congratulated judoka Asmita Dey for her recent Commonwealth Games gold medal in Glasgow, Scotland, describing her achievement as a source of pride for both Tripura and India.
He said the government has developed synthetic football and hockey fields, swimming pools and athletic tracks across the state. Multi-purpose indoor sports halls are under construction in Kailashahar and Udaipur, while a 200-bed sports hostel is being built at the Dasarath Deb Sports Complex, Badharghat. Plans are also underway for a 30,000-seat gallery at Dasarath Deb Stadium and a sports hall at NSRCC.
Ratan Saha, Working President of the Tripura Badminton Association, said the championship, featuring Under-19, Senior and Veteran categories, will continue until August 10. AMC Central Zone Chairperson Ratna Datta and Tripura Sports Council Secretary Sukanta Ghosh were also present.
