Lucknow: The second edition of the All India Police Badminton Cluster (Badminton & Table Tennis) Championship 2025–26 was inaugurated in Lucknow by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath at the Babu Banarasi Das UP Badminton Academy in Gomti Nagar.
The event, organised by the Uttar Pradesh Police, marks a major sporting initiative bringing together police and paramilitary forces from across India.
Around 1,400 Players from Across India Participate
The championship has witnessed participation from nearly 1,400 athletes representing various state police and paramilitary forces, including teams from Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, Karnataka, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh.
The event will run from May 9 to May 13, featuring both badminton and table tennis competitions.
CM Releases Special Souvenir “Sfurti”
During the inauguration, CM Yogi Adityanath also released a special commemorative souvenir titled “Sfurti,” highlighting event preparations, participants, and sports activities.
Players also took part in the official oath ceremony as part of the opening proceedings.
Sports Meets Nation-Building Vision
Addressing the gathering, CM Yogi Adityanath said that sports are no longer limited to entertainment but have become a powerful tool for nation-building, aligning with the vision of Narendra Modi for “Ek Bharat, Shreshtha Bharat.”
He emphasized that sports promote discipline, teamwork, and coordination among forces.
Strong Praise for UP Police Arrangements
Participating athletes praised the arrangements made by the Uttar Pradesh government and police for the event.
Players from Karnataka, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and Gujarat appreciated the hospitality, infrastructure, and smooth conduct of the tournament.
PAC Band Performance Adds Cultural Energy
The event also featured a lively performance by the 35th Battalion PAC Band, which created an energetic and festive atmosphere at the venue, appreciated by both players and spectators.
Gujarat Team Among Key Participants
A team of 36 players from Gujarat Police is also participating in the championship, competing in both badminton and table tennis categories.
Participants described Lucknow as a welcoming and well-organized host city, praising the arrangements and sporting facilities.
Focus on Fitness and Coordination in Police Forces
The primary objective of the tournament is to enhance physical fitness, teamwork, and coordination among police personnel from different states through competitive sports.
Officials stated that such events also strengthen inter-state cooperation and unity among security forces.
The All India Police Badminton Cluster 2025–26 in Lucknow has emerged as a major sporting event promoting fitness, discipline, and national integration among police forces, while showcasing Uttar Pradesh’s growing capability in hosting large-scale sports competitions.
