Jacob Khaling advocates for Sikkim's sporting future at BAI AGM in New Delhi

Jacob Khaling, Political Secretary to the Chief Minister of Sikkim and President of the Badminton Association of Sikkim, made a compelling case for the state’s growing role in national sports development at the Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Badminton Association of India (BAI), held yesterday in New Delhi. Accompanied by Shri Sukanta Das, General Secretary of the association, Khaling represented Sikkim with a firm commitment to promoting badminton as a key sport in the region.

The AGM, chaired by BAI President and Chief Minister of Assam Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, brought together top badminton administrators and sports officials from across India. The gathering focused on shaping a strategic roadmap for badminton with special emphasis on elevating the sport in the Northeastern states.

Shri Khaling used the platform to highlight Sikkim’s potential as an emerging hub for badminton. Calling for greater inclusion of the state in national-level tournaments and upcoming infrastructure projects, he stressed the importance of investing in youth talent and training facilities in the region. “For Northeast India to truly rise in the national sporting scene, we must empower our youth through access, infrastructure, and opportunities,” Khaling stated during the meeting.

His interventions were well received by the BAI leadership and participating members, further reinforcing Sikkim’s reputation as a proactive contributor to India’s sports policy dialogue. Under the leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Shri Prem Singh Tamang-Golay, the state has shown a renewed focus on grassroots sports development, positioning itself as a serious player in the national sports landscape.

The representation at the AGM signals a clear message — that Sikkim is no longer content with being a fringe participant but is ready to take center stage in shaping the future of Indian badminton. Plans are already underway to expand training programmes and identify talent from rural areas, with the vision of creating a self-sustaining sports ecosystem.