Roko Angami with officials and participants of 6th Inter-Department Badminton Tournament on September 11 at the NLA Indoor Stadium in Kohima. (Morung Photo)
Our Correspondent
Kohima | September 11
The 6th Inter-Department Badminton Tournament (Kohima Edition 2026), organised under the aegis of the Inter Department Badminton Club (IDBC) Kohima, commenced on September 11 at the NLA Indoor Stadium.
Gracing the opening ceremony as the special guest, Roko Angami, OSD (Sports) in the Department of Youth Resources & Sports, complimented the IDBC for bringing officers and employees from various departments together through sports. Describing sports as a powerful universal language that fosters unity and mutual understanding, he noted that such events promote friendship, mutual respect, and better workplace coordination extending beyond the playing arena.
Highlighting sports as a vital investment for physical and mental well-being, Angami lauded the state government’s initiatives under Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio toward sports development, citing the construction of over 30 futsal grounds, several artificial turf grounds, and more than 32 multipurpose halls across Nagaland. He also mentioned the newly announced Chief Minister’s Initiative for Advancement of Sportsperson, under which badminton has been selected as one of the five priority sports to support promising athletes.
Speaking at the event, IDBC President Er. Sabou Yashü stated that the tournament, which began in 2020, has grown significantly into a successful platform for government employees and badminton enthusiasts. He expressed gratitude to sponsors including State Bank of India, Toyota, Urban Bay Sports, and Neibalie Rio, Special Officer to the Chief Minister, for their support.
Collaborating partner and SDO (C) Kohima, Seyiekhrietuo Solo, thanked the IDBC for organizing the event to help officers and staff connect and interact, while M. Rhovisie Nyuwi, IPS, noted the rise in participant numbers and backing from well-wishers.
The tournament features competitions across four categories: Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, and 50+, Legislators, Ex-Legislators and Retirees’ Doubles. The oath-taking for participating teams was administered by Toshi, while the opening ceremony was chaired by Temsu Longkumer. The tournament will conclude on September 12.
