In a landmark move aimed at elevating Indian badminton to global prominence, the Badminton Association of India (BAI) has unveiled a comprehensive ₹9.75 crore annual investment plan focused on talent development, domestic tournament support, coaching enhancement, and international performance incentives.
Its a major Boost for Coaching, Grassroots Development, and International Success Incentives
The decision, announced during BAI’s Annual General Body Meeting held in New Delhi under the chairmanship of President Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, marks one of the most significant structural investments by any national sports federation in India.
A Holistic Vision for Growth
The new plan reflects BAI’s ambition to build a sustainable badminton ecosystem that nurtures players from the grassroots to the global stage. This includes support for state associations, increased prize money for national tournaments, enhanced financial backing for former players transitioning into coaching roles, and generous rewards for international medal winners.
“Given the size of our country, one National Centre of Excellence (NCE) was never going to be enough,” Dr. Sarma said, referencing the existing NCE in Guwahati. “The increased state-level grants will allow regional bodies to strengthen their infrastructure and programs to meet rising demands.”
Key Highlights of the Investment Plan
1. Increased Financial Support for State Associations
- Annual Grant: Increased from ₹7.5 lakh to ₹10 lakh per state association.
- Tournament Support: Additional grants of:
- ₹2 lakh for Senior and U-19 national ranking events
- ₹3 lakh for U-15 and U-17 events
- ₹1.5 lakh for U-13 events
2. Doubling of Prize Money for National Ranking Tournaments
3. Major Upgrade in National Championships Grants
Recognition and Retention of Coaching Talent
To professionalize and stabilize India’s national coaching setup, BAI has introduced monthly retainerships for top Indian coaches currently involved in National Camps:
•Olympians serving as coaches: ₹1,00,000/month
•Other international-level coaches: ₹50,000/month
This ₹73 lakh annual allocation ensures India’s former stars remain engaged in shaping the next generation.
Performance-Based Incentives at Global Events
A key component of the plan is a ₹2.22 crore allocation to reward Indian players and teams for excellence at major international events
This initiative aims to boost motivation among players, particularly juniors, to aspire to top podium finishes globally.
Sustained Focus on Grassroots and Coach Education
Alongside these financial measures, BAI continues to invest in structural programs:
- Expansion of grassroots engagement
- Certification and development programs for coaches
- Recognition and financial incentives for state-level tournament organizers
A Blueprint for Sustainable Success
Dr. Sarma emphasized that these strategic investments are designed not just to address the present, but to lay a foundation for long-term excellence in Indian badminton. “Looking after the needs of up-and-coming players, motivating them, and providing better financial incentives is critical for the sport’s growth,” he noted.
With the Paris 2024 Olympic cycle concluded and new targets on the horizon, BAI’s ₹9.75 crore annual plan reflects a decisive commitment to build depth, reward excellence, and create a self-sustaining ecosystem that can consistently produce world-class talent.
