ASBA Secretary General Advocates for Badminton Development with BWF President

Itanagar, India Aug 17, 2026 ALN: In a significant meeting aimed at bolstering badminton in the region, Bamang Tago, the Secretary General of the State Badminton Association (ASBA), met with Khunying Patama Leeswadtrakul, the President of the Badminton World Federation (BWF), in New Delhi on Sunday. The discussion focused on strategies to strengthen and promote badminton within the state.

Badminton has seen a surge in popularity in India over the past few decades, particularly following the success of Indian players on the international stage. Stars like P.V. Sindhu, Saina Nehwal, and Kidambi Srikanth have not only won numerous accolades but have also inspired a generation of young athletes to take up the sport. This growing interest at the grassroots level is reflected in the increasing number of badminton academies and clubs being established across the country, especially in regions like the North East, where sports have traditionally been a significant part of the local culture.

During the meeting, Tago emphasized the increasing popularity of badminton among the youth in the state. He presented the BWF President with an overview of ASBA’s initiatives, which include nurturing young talent, organizing state-level tournaments, and developing technical officials to enhance the sport's infrastructure. These initiatives are crucial as they not only aim at honing the skills of young athletes but also seek to create a sustainable ecosystem for badminton in the region.

Tago specifically sought assistance from the BWF to improve badminton facilities, conduct coaching and technical clinics, provide necessary equipment, and create more exposure opportunities for players and officials. He expressed that such support would be instrumental in helping young athletes from the state access better training and compete at higher levels. The importance of quality training and exposure cannot be overstated, as it directly influences the performance of athletes in competitive environments.

In response, Leeswadtrakul praised ASBA’s commitment to the development of badminton and assured that the BWF would continue to support efforts to promote the sport, particularly in the North Eastern region of India. The BWF has been proactive in its mission to develop badminton globally, and its support for regional associations like ASBA is part of a broader strategy to ensure that the sport flourishes in diverse environments. This collaboration is expected to elevate the standards of badminton and provide a platform for local talent to shine on larger stages.

The meeting marks a pivotal step towards enhancing badminton's profile and infrastructure in the state, aligning with the broader goal of fostering sports development in India. The Indian government has also recognized the importance of sports in nation-building and has initiated various programs aimed at improving sports facilities and encouraging youth participation. This synergy between government efforts and organizational support from bodies like the BWF is essential for the long-term growth of badminton in the region.

Furthermore, the North Eastern states of India have a rich sporting heritage, and badminton is one of the sports that has gained traction in recent years. The region has produced several talented players who have gone on to represent India at national and international competitions. However, challenges such as limited access to high-quality training facilities and coaching resources remain. Addressing these issues is vital for the continued success of badminton in the region.

The implications of this meeting extend beyond just the immediate benefits for ASBA and its athletes. By strengthening the foundation of badminton in the North East, there is potential for the sport to contribute to regional identity and pride. Sports often serve as a unifying force in communities, and successful athletes can become role models, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams, whether in sports or other fields.

In conclusion, the collaboration between ASBA and the BWF represents a significant opportunity for the development of badminton in the North Eastern states of India. With the right support and resources, the region can potentially emerge as a powerhouse in badminton, contributing to India's overall success in the sport on the global stage. As the discussions progress and initiatives are implemented, the focus will remain on nurturing talent, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting the sport to ensure that badminton continues to thrive in the region.