The first Kohima District Inter-High School Badminton Tournament commenced with 46 participants from 15 schools in Kohima.
KOHIMA — The Kohima District Badminton Association (KDBA) on Thursday launched the first Kohima District Inter-High School Badminton Tournament at the Badminton Stadium, Officer's Hill, Kohima.
Director of School Education Razouseyi Vese attended the inaugural programme as the special guest.
Speaking at the inaugural programme, Vese commended the KDBA for extending its role beyond organising association activities to creating opportunities for school students to take up competitive badminton at the grassroots level.
He said the initiative comes at an opportune time as India is preparing its sporting ecosystem with the aspiration of hosting the 2036 Olympic Games, adding that nurturing young athletes today could produce future Olympians.
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Encouraging students to actively participate in sports, Vese said sporting activities contribute not only to physical fitness but also to mental well-being, discipline, and character building. While not every student may pursue sports professionally, he said every child should take up at least one sporting discipline for overall development.
He also described sports as a field that offers opportunities for recognition and success, urging students to make the most of the platform provided by the tournament. Stressing the importance of sportsmanship, he called on participants to compete with determination, accept victories with humility and defeats with grace, and continue striving to improve.
Earlier, KDBA President Kezhalezo Solo, in his welcome address, said the tournament aims to foster unity, friendship, and healthy competition while providing a platform for young badminton players to showcase their talent. He urged participants to uphold the values of fair play, respect, and sportsmanship throughout the competition.
Highlighting the vision behind the tournament, KDBA Vice President (Administration) Kekhrie Pfukha said the association has adopted the theme “Serving dreams and scoring the future” to promote youth excellence through badminton.
He said the association's long-term strategy focuses on three pillars—scouting, grooming, and nurturing young talent through grassroots development, structured coaching, and competitive exposure. Pfukha added that the initiative also seeks to align with the state's long-term sporting aspirations and called on parents to partner with the association in supporting young athletes.
A total of 46 participants from 15 schools are participating in the three-day tournament.