Assam Government’s Vision for Sporting Excellence: Establishing a National Centre of Excellence for Badminton
The pursuit of sporting greatness takes center stage as the Assam government embarks on a significant partnership with the Badminton Association of India.
Their joint endeavor aims to create a National Centre of Excellence for Badminton within the state’s borders. This collaborative effort is poised to harness local talent and elevate the badminton landscape in the region.
A Long-Term Commitment: Forging Ahead
With a resolute commitment to nurturing sporting talent, Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma took to Twitter on August 3 to unveil this ambitious plan. The impending memorandum of understanding (MoU) underscores a decade-long partnership, with provisions for a potential extension of an additional ten years. This foresight demonstrates Assam’s dedication to fostering badminton prowess over the long haul.
The proposed setting for this center of excellence is the Amingaon Indoor Stadium, renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities. However, this initiative isn’t solely about bricks and mortar; it’s about curating a team of seasoned national and international coaches. This comprehensive approach aims to create an environment conducive to nurturing budding badminton talents.
A clear division of responsibilities delineates the roles of each entity. The operational and managerial aspects will fall under the purview of Assam’s Sports and Youth Welfare Department. On the technical front, the Badminton Association of India will contribute its expertise. This collaborative approach seeks to harness the strengths of both partners to create an impactful training ecosystem.
Fostering Talent: From Grassroots to Glory
The overarching goal of the National Centre of Excellence is twofold: identifying emerging talent at the grassroots level and refining the skills of established national players. This dual-pronged strategy aligns perfectly with the mission of nurturing aspiring athletes and equipping them for successful careers in the realm of badminton.
Omar Rashid, Secretary of the Assam Badminton Association, radiates positivity about this initiative. He emphasizes the cutting-edge training equipment and world-class coaching that will be available at the center. Rashid envisions the center as a hub that rivals international standards. While the current Assam Badminton Association operates a three-court academy at the Kanaklata Indoor Stadium, the expanded scope of the new center necessitates a minimum of five courts to accommodate a larger cohort of players.
However, amid the anticipation, some stakeholders voice concerns. Certain former players and guardians question the chosen location, advocating for a more strategic alternative due to existing limitations. They propose that a well-chosen location could better address the pressing need for comprehensive training facilities within the city.
