40th National Badminton Championship Begins at Paltan With Record 616 Shuttlers
The six-day '40th National Badminton Championship 2026' has begun at the Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Indoor Stadium at Paltan in the capital. State Minister for Sports Aminul Haque formally inaugurated the competition on Friday. The tournament will run until October 28.
A record 616 shuttlers from 88 teams from across the country are taking part in this edition. Among them are 535 men and 81 women players. Those concerned see such a huge turnout at a national-level event as positive for badminton in the country.
A total of Tk 10 lakh in prize money has been allocated for the competition. In addition, an electric bike will be given as a special prize for the best player. The prize money and special award have created extra interest among the players.
Speaking as chief guest at the inauguration, State Minister for Sports Aminul Haque said the participation of so many players in the National Badminton Championship is a positive milestone for the country's sports arena. He credited the players for the achievement.
He expressed gratitude to the players, media workers, guardians and those who brought their children from far away. In his words, the combined participation of so many people is what makes a big sporting event successful.
Outlining the government's plan to spread sports across the country, the state minister said work is under way with the goal of spreading sports throughout the year to every district, neighbourhood and locality, rather than limiting it to Dhaka-centric or winter activities. To that end, there is a plan to form separate committees in every district under the Badminton Federation and hold regular tournaments.
He said the 'Notun Kuri Sports' programme will be inaugurated simultaneously across the country from Khulna District Stadium on November 5, and badminton will be included in it. In addition, year-round training programmes in selected sports including badminton, football, hockey, archery and shooting will begin from next January.
On raising badminton to international standard, Aminul Haque said the government is working with the goal of lifting the sport to international level within the next five years. Plans include holding at least three international tournaments on home soil, inviting foreign teams and creating opportunities for Bangladeshi players to compete abroad.
According to the state minister, more opportunities to compete internationally will raise players' confidence and morale, and will also play a positive role in developing their skills. He believes international experience alongside domestic competition is what takes players to the next stage.
Addressing players and organisers, he said wins and losses are part of sport. Instead of moving away from the game in frustration after defeat, players should move forward aiming to win. He urged them to give their best in sport while holding patriotism in their hearts.
National Sports Council Executive Director Daulatuzzaman attended the ceremony as special guest. Bangladesh Badminton Federation General Secretary Kazi Hasibur Rahman and other concerned persons were also present.
The six-day event will now see contests in various events every day. The 40th National Badminton Championship will conclude with the finals on October 28. Badminton lovers are now watching whether new stars emerge from this edition with its record participation.
