Patna: A delegation of nine members from the Ball Badminton Federation of India, led by National President and Bihar Legislative Council Member Professor Nawal Kishore Yadav, met with the Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Mansukh Mandaviya, in New Delhi today. The delegation discussed key issues related to the development of ball badminton, including the renewal of the Federation’s recognition.
During the meeting, Professor Yadav highlighted the sport’s historical significance, noting that ball badminton was recognised as an indigenous Indian sport by the Government of India in 1959. He emphasised the need for the Sports Ministry’s full support to promote the sport on a national level. He also underscored the achievements of ball badminton, mentioning that six players have received the prestigious Arjuna Award, and many have secured employment across various sectors, including Railways, ISRO, the Bank Sports Board, Major Ports, All India Electricity Board, Canara Bank, the Department of Atomic Energy, Income Tax, LIC, steel companies, and the National Mines Department. Teams from institutions, states, and union territories actively participate in national tournaments.
The delegation also discussed the technical aspects of this traditional sport, seeking further assistance from the government. In response, Minister Mansukh Mandaviya assured them of the government’s commitment to providing all possible support for the development of ball badminton.
In addition to Professor Nawal Kishore Yadav, the delegation included Y. Raja Rao (General Secretary, Chhattisgarh), Gouri Shankar (Associate Joint Secretary), Shaukat Ali Mansuri (Joint Secretary, Rajasthan), Laxmikant Sharma (National Tournament Committee member), J.P. Vyas (Patron, Rajasthan), Lokpal Singh, Dr. Arun Dayal (Member, Bihar), and Shiv Narayan Pal (Bihar).
