MARGAO
The Goa Badminton Association (GBA), represented by its president Manoj Patil, took part in the Annual General Meeting of the Badminton Association of India (BAI) held in New Delhi on Saturday. The meeting was chaired by BAI president and Assam Chief Minister Hemanta Biswa Sarma.
Goa used the platform to strongly advocate for the state to be considered as a regional National Centre of Excellence for badminton. The proposal received a positive and encouraging response from the BAI leadership, including both the president and secretary, marking a step forward in Goa’s aspirations to emerge as a key hub for badminton training and talent development.
The AGM also saw several significant decisions being adopted, including a move to double prize money for BAI-sanctioned tournaments across all categories. In a bid to offer more international exposure, the BAI approved participation of the top 150 nationally ranked players in BWF tournaments. The introduction of zonal league tournaments to expand grassroots competition was another major announcement.
GBA president Patil expressed optimism following the meeting, citing the progressive decisions and the receptive approach of the BAI toward Goa’s suggestions. He said the association looks forward to building on the momentum and further strengthening the state’s badminton ecosystem.
