HT Correspondent
ITANAGAR, Aug 9: The Li-Ning 12th Dorjee Khandu Memorial State Badminton Championship 2025 began on Saturday at the Khelo India Indoor Stadium, Itanagar, ushering in five days of competitive action and celebration of sporting spirit.
The tournament, scheduled from August 9 to 13, has drawn more than 500 shuttlers from all 28 districts of Arunachal Pradesh, alongside players representing the Sangay Lhaden Sports Academy and Rajiv Gandhi University Sports Control Board.
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According to an official statement, the championship was formally inaugurated in a grand opening ceremony attended by dignitaries, sports officials, players and spectators.
Dr Mohesh Chai, MLA of 44-Tezu and Advisor to the Minister of Health, Commerce & Industry, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, presided as chief guest.
Laisam Simai, MLA of 51-Nampong, attended as guest of honour.
In his address, Dr Chai praised the commitment and perseverance of the participants and organisers, urging young athletes to pursue sports with dedication, discipline and a focus on excellence.
He emphasised that events like the championship not only test skill but also instil values such as teamwork and resilience.
Guest of honour Simai commended the growing badminton culture in the state, noting the increasing participation of youth from remote districts.
He expressed confidence that platforms like the Dorjee Khandu Memorial Championship would help nurture future champions capable of competing at the highest levels in national and international arenas.
Organised by the Arunachal State Badminton Association (ASBA) under the aegis of the Badminton Association of India (BAI), and in collaboration with the Department of Sports, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, the tournament will feature matches across multiple age categories.
Winners will not only claim state honours but also strengthen their chances of representing Arunachal Pradesh in national-level competitions.
The annual event is held in memory of Late Dorjee Khandu, former chief minister of Arunachal Pradesh, whose vision and leadership greatly advanced the development of sports infrastructure and opportunities in the state.
The statement noted that the championship serves as a tribute to his enduring contribution to youth empowerment through sports.
With a packed schedule and strong competition anticipated, the tournament is expected to showcase the best of local badminton talent while inspiring the next generation of shuttlers.
Organisers have expressed optimism that the event will further elevate the profile of badminton in Arunachal Pradesh and motivate young players to pursue the sport professionally.
