Aizawl, May 20: Mizoram Sports Minister Lalnghinglova Hmar on Tuesday inaugurated the Yonex-Sunrise PC Gabriel Lalliansanga Memorial MBA Junior Official Badminton Championship 2026 at Ramhlun Indoor Stadium in Aizawl.
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| Lalnghinglova Hmar addressing the opening ceremony of the Yonex-Sunrise PC Gabriel Lalliansanga Memorial MBA Junior Official Badminton Championship 2026 at Ramhlun Indoor Stadium in Aizawl. (Image: DIPR Mizoram) |
Retired Director General of Police PC Lallawmsanga attended the programme as the guest of honour.
Addressing the gathering, the Sports Minister expressed happiness at seeing many young people actively participating in sports and staying away from drugs at a time when the Mizoram government is intensifying its anti-drug campaign across the state.
He said Mizoram has made significant progress in sports, particularly in badminton, which he described as one of the disciplines witnessing rapid growth in recent years. Lalnghinglova Hmar noted that Mizoram has produced several junior and sub-junior badminton champions and promising talents within a short span of time.
The minister stressed that with proper training and support, badminton players from Mizoram could reach even greater heights and produce more national-level athletes in the future.
He further stated that the Mizoram government is promoting sports with a long-term vision linked to the 2036 Olympics. According to him, the state is focusing on eight sports disciplines in which Mizo athletes have shown strong potential at the national level - archery, badminton, boxing, hockey, judo, taekwondo, weightlifting and wrestling.
The Sports Minister encouraged young athletes to dream of representing India at the Olympic Games and urged them to develop discipline, dedication and an Olympic vision in their sporting careers.
He also highlighted the importance of sports in promoting physical fitness, mental well-being and healthy thinking, describing sports as a “medicine” for a healthy society.
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Speaking at the programme, retired DGP PC Lallawmsanga encouraged youngsters to actively take part in sports and said discipline learned through games also helps in academic life.
Representing the Excise and Narcotics Department, Peter Zohmingthangqa urged participants to stay away from drugs and live disciplined lives that would bring pride to Mizoram and the country. Participants also took an anti-drug pledge during the programme.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by MBA Treasurer Laltanpuia.
