Odisha Sports and Youth Services Minister Suryabanshi Suraj on Tuesday said badminton remains a priority sport for the state and assured that athletes would be provided training of the highest standards.
The minister visited the Sports Authority of India Regional Badminton Academy Badminton Academy in Saheed Nagar here to review facilities and interact with budding players. He held discussions with the Director of Sports, academy coaches and officials of the Department of Sports and Youth Services.
Suraj also met 95 resident cadets to take feedback on coaching quality, hostel accommodation and nutrition.
Emphasising a “holistic and athlete-centric environment”, he directed officials to ensure world-class support systems for players to excel at national and international levels.
“Badminton is a priority sport for us, and we are committed to ensuring that our athletes receive training of the highest standards,” the minister said.
He instructed officials to maintain structured coaching standards, improve living conditions and implement science-based nutrition plans to support peak performance.
Suraj further directed that coaching, housing and nutrition facilities be continuously upgraded, stressing that the state should strive to set new benchmarks in sports excellence.
The visit underlines the state government’s focus on strengthening grassroots sports infrastructure and nurturing talent to position Odisha as a global sports hub.