Li Ning 45th Inter District and State Open Badminton Championship culminates

KOHIMA— The week-long Li Ning 45th Inter District and State Open Badminton Championship 2023 cum Nagaland Badminton Association (NBA) Golden Jubilee Commemoration culminated on Friday night at Indoor Badminton Stadium, Officers Hill Colony Kohima.

Deputy Chief Minister of Nagaland, TR Zeliang, who attended the grand finale, lauded the organisers for providing the unique privilege and platform to young sportspersons from across the state to showcase their talents, dedication and potentials, while exuding hope that it will help the players to excel in the sport.

Badminton as a sport is thrilling and exhilarating, known for its fast-paced action, agility and precision, said Zeliang, who is also an enthusiast of the sport. He said many, irrespective of age, play badminton to keep themselves fit.

He expressed hope that the tournament had given the participants a glimpse of the possibilities and rewards that await those who dedicate themselves to the game and instilled a sense of ambition and desire among the young players to reach their full potentials.

While encouraging players to aim higher and give their best effort to compete at the national and international level, he also advised them to stay fit by avoiding harmful substances that are detrimental to health and career.

Noting that the tournament also marked the commemoration of Golden Jubilee of NBA, he acknowledged the contribution of the association towards promoting the sport in the state and lauded the pioneers as well as present leaders for tirelessly stewarding the sporting body.

Also speaking at the event, Advisor for Youth Resources and Sports (YRS), S Keoshu Yimkhiung, encouraged both young and old to continuously strive towards promoting badminton in all possible ways.

Former NBA president, Lanu Toy said Nagas are talented and that the proposal to replace the old stadium with a new facility should be pursuit with all seriousness.

He lamented that there is lack of sincerity, discipline, consistency, seriousness and ambitions among the Naga youth to reach the highest level and urged them not to give up.

Further, he said the youngsters should be given the best training not only physically but also mentally to shine at national but international level.

Peren district emerged as the overall team champion of the tournament.

Here is list of winners: