Minister for Social Welfare, Women, Child, Senior Citizen and Divyangjan, Printing and Stationery Departments, Mr Samdup Lepcha, inaugurated the 34th Sikkim State Badminton Championship 2025, a four-day tournament, at the Indoor Badminton Hall, Paljor Stadium, today.

The tournament is being organised by the Badminton Association of Sikkim (BAS) under the aegis of the Badminton Association of India.

Minister Mr Samdup Lepcha, in his address, underlined the role of sports in improving health, building discipline, and strengthening immunity. He stated that participation in sports itself was an achievement, while winning or losing formed part of the game.

He urged the players to compete with discipline, uphold sportsmanship, and follow the code of conduct of the sport. He advised the young athletes to perform with commitment, as they represented the future generation, and to remain attentive to the guidance of officials and parents to support their sporting journey.

President BAS, Mr Jacob Khaling, briefed the gathering on the annual championship. He stated that the tournament schedule had been framed according to the age groups of the participants and could be extended by a day, if required. He further said that training sessions and coaching camps would be conducted for selected state players to strengthen their skills for national-level competitions.

Earlier, the programme began with a welcome address by the General Secretary Badminton Association of Sikkim, Mr Sukanta Das.

During the event, Master Tseten Wangdi Bhutia administered the players’ oath.

Also present were Deputy Mayor of Gangtok Municipal Corporation Ms Tshering Palden Bhutia, President BAS Mr Jacob Khaling, General Secretary BAS Mr Sukanta Das, SDM Gangtok Mr Mahindra Chettri, President Sikkim Olympic Association Mr Kuber Bhandari, and Deputy Director Sports and Youth Affairs Department Ms Dawa Ongmu Lepcha, along with officials, dignitaries, and players from all districts.

Report from DIO-Gangtok