Punjab to host National Badminton Championship after 40 years, BAI announces Rs. 10 lakh prize for sub-junior nationals

The event will provide a major boost to budding shuttlers of Punjab : Ritin Khanna

Jalandhar(The Uttam Hindu) : In a major boost to badminton in Punjab, the state is set to host a national championship after a gap of 40 years. The Badminton Association of India (BAI) has allotted the 38th Sub-Junior National Badminton Championship to Punjab.

Sharing details, Punjab Badminton Association honorary secretary Ritin Khanna said the championship will be held from 9th-12th, December 2026, at the iconic Raizada Hansraj Badminton Stadium. Around 350 players from 33 states and Union Territories are expected to participate. The last national badminton championship in Punjab was held in 1987, also in Jalandhar.

Khanna said the PBA had been in continuous touch with the BAI for hosting rights, which were granted after the federation reviewed the upgraded infrastructure at the venue. He added that a total cash prize of Rs.10 lakh would be awarded to the winners.The championship will feature singles and doubles events in the under-13 boys’ and girls’ categories, with matches conducted under the supervision of BAI officials. The PBA will arrange boarding and lodging for players, coaches, managers and officials.

Khanna said the event is expected to provide a major boost to budding shuttlers in the state by giving them an opportunity to witness and compete alongside top young talent at the national level.

It is pertinent to mention that the Raizada Hansraj Badminton Stadium has undergone a major transformation, with an investment of Rs.1 crore over the past five years. The stadium now boasts 10 courts, a gymnasium, restaurant, sports shop and a physiotherapy centre. Former Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur also visited the stadium and appreciated the efforts of the interim committee of the District Badminton Association (DBA), Jalandhar.

Notably, Ritin Khanna, a former national player and honorary secretary, was honoured by the Governor of Punjab for his outstanding contribution to the sport.