In a significant boost to the city's sports infrastructure, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Himanshu Aggarwal (IAS) inaugurated four newly constructed multipurpose courts and a modern running track at the iconic Raizada Hansraj Badminton Stadium on Friday.
With this addition, the stadium now boasts a total of 10 courts, making it the only facility in Punjab with such a capacity.
The inauguration ceremony was marked by a celebration of sporting excellence, as Dr. Aggarwal felicitated several athletes who have brought laurels to the district at national and international levels.
These outstanding players were honoured with cash prizes as a token of appreciation for their dedication and achievements.
During the ceremony, the poster for the upcoming Indian Oil Jalandhar District Badminton Championship scheduled to be held from August 28 to 31, 2025 was also formally unveiled during the event.
Addressing the gathering, Dr. Aggarwal highlighted the transformative power of sports in shaping the lives of youth. He said Sports helps in physical fitness, mental well-being, discipline, teamwork and character shaping. Besides making an individual confident, responsible and resilient.
He extended heartfelt congratulations to the parents of the honoured players and commended the District Badminton Association (DBA) for its continued efforts to promote and develop badminton in the region. Dr. Aggarwal also assured full administrative support for future projects and initiatives by the association.
Sharing details about the newly completed project, Mr. Ritin Khanna, former national player and Honorary Secretary of the District Badminton Association (DBA), stated that the total cost of project was Rs.25 lakhs, with the entire work completed within three months.
He further shared that slots will be available on a Pay & Play basis at highly competitive rates and players can book their slots either online through hudle app or directly with the association.
These new facilities will now allow residents to enjoy both badminton and pickleball at same place. Several more projects are already in the pipeline to further upgrade and modernize the stadium infrastructure,” he added.
It is noteworthy that over Rs.1 crore has been invested in the development of Raizada Hansraj Badminton Stadium over the past five years. The stadium now boasts 10 courts, a gymnasium, yoga and aerobics centre, restaurant, physiotherapy centre, sports shop and a running track.
The event was also graced by DBA Chairman Randeep Singh Heer (PCS), Treasurer Palwinder Juneja, and executive members Rakesh Khanna, Kusum Kaypee, Mukul Verma, Harpreet Singh, Aman Mittal, and Ravneet Takhar who were all present to witness the landmark occasion.