The first Junior Badminton Coaching Camp in Noklak commenced on March 2 and would continue till March 14, with enthusiastic participation from young players across the district. The camp is being organized by the Noklak District Badminton Association (NDBA) with the aim of identifying and nurturing budding talents.

A total of 130 students are currently undergoing coaching at the camp. Upon completion of the 12-day programme, selected players will be shortlisted for an intensive three-month advanced coaching session to further develop their skills.

Gracing the inaugural session, Col Ghanender Pratap Singh, VSM, Commandant of 32 Assam Rifles, encouraged the participants to pursue sports with dedication and sincerity. In his address, he stated that having spent over a year in Noklak, he firmly believed that the students of the district possessed immense talent and energy that required proper guidance and nurturing. He remarked that such coaching initiatives would help channel their potential in the right direction.

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Highlighting the growing importance of sports, he observed that unlike earlier times when academics were given sole priority, sports had now emerged as a viable and respectable profession. Referring to Mary Kom, he noted that Indian sportspersons had brought great pride to the nation and inspired the younger generation. He expressed confidence that one day a player from Noklak would represent the district and the country at higher levels.

The Noklak District Badminton Association is conducting the entire initiative free of cost, voluntarily dedicating its efforts towards building a stronger sporting culture and ensuring a brighter future for the youth of the district