Manipal; Dec 15: After inaugurating south zone inter-university badminton tournament for boys and girls for five days held under the auspices of Manipal university on Dec 15, Sunday in Manipal marena indoor sports complex, Dr.Akhileshdas Gupta, president of Indian badminton association and MP said in his address that in view of improving further, the eight teams will play in the coming Indian badminton league (IBL) instead of six.
He further explained that among eight teams, one team will be from Dubai. Therefore it has been decided to hold the coming tournament both in India and Dubai. Besides prize money will also be increased, he said.
Out of 6 crore honorarium paid to sportsmen in the last league, around 4 crore was taken by Indian sportsmen. Top ranked players like Saina Nehval was given Rs.1.20 lac and rest of the players were given Rs 10-15 thousand dollar.
Today, India is doing incomparable achievements. Our players with proper training have grown competitively.
By establishing Rajiv Gandhi national badminton academy in Manipur, it has been decided to give training for both boys and girls there, he informed.
Dr.Ramdas M Pai, Chanellor, Manipal VV College has presided over the function.Dr.Vijaya Sinha, honorary secretary of badminton sangha has released tourney bulletin. During the occasion national refree Dr.Satish Mallya and Archana J Vittal, a special player has been felicitated.
Entrepreneur Purushotham Shetty, Chandra J.C from syndicate bank, Dr.G.K Prabhu, VV registrar were present. Manipal VV professor chancellor Dr.H.S.Ballal welcomed the guests.Dr.K.Rama Narayan, Manipal VV chancellor delivered an introductory speech.
Kreeda council secretary Dr.Vinodh Nayak proposed a vote of thanks.Balakrishna Muddhody and Preema D’Souza compered the programme.In this badminton tournament ,south India’s 70 men from five states and 67 women’s teams will be participating.
