The Business Bytes
New Delhi/Bhubaneswar, 12th December 2024 (TBB Bureau): A monumental step towards fostering badminton excellence in India was taken today with the inauguration of ‘Shuttle by Dalmia Bharat,’ a High-Performance Centre (HPC) at the iconic Kalinga Stadium in Bhubaneswar. The grand event was graced by the Chief Minister of Odisha, Mohan Charan Majhi, and the Chief Minister of Assam, Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, in the presence of India’s Chief National Coach, Pullela Gopichand, and Puneet Dalmia, Managing Director, Dalmia Bharat.
The state-of-the-art facility, officially named the Dalmia Bharat Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy, marks a unique collaboration between the Odisha government, the Pullela Gopichand Badminton Foundation (PGBF), and the Dalmia Bharat Group. The academy spans a massive 77,000 sq. ft., featuring eight world-class badminton courts, a seating capacity of 400, and top-tier residential and recreational amenities for athletes. Designed to foster all-round development, it includes a modern gymnasium, an amphitheater for outdoor activities, and residential facilities for 50 players. The rooftop viewing ring offers a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city.
The facility’s iconic design, inspired by a shuttlecock, is a first-of-its-kind in India and symbolizes the spirit of the sport. Beyond aesthetics, the construction prioritizes sustainability. Key features include low-carbon green cement, rainwater harvesting systems, energy-efficient LED lighting, and an inverted shell design that minimizes power consumption. Its aerodynamic circular shape enhances wind flow, reducing pressure on the structure and emphasizing environmental responsibility.
Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma, also the President of the Badminton Association of India, emphasized the importance of such collaborations in driving sports to global heights. Mohan Charan Majhi echoed similar sentiments, underlining Odisha’s commitment to becoming a global sports hub.
Speaking at the event, Puneet Dalmia expressed gratitude to the dignitaries and emphasized the group’s commitment to Indian sports: “We are grateful to the Hon’ble Chief Ministers of Odisha and Assam for their gracious presence. Himantaji, as the President of the Badminton Association of India, your efforts have been pivotal to India’s global badminton success. We envision this academy as a cradle for future champions and a landmark in the competitive circuit, attracting both national and international professionals.”
Pullela Gopichand lauded the facility, calling it a game-changer for Indian badminton: “This initiative by Dalmia Bharat and the Odisha government represents a revolutionary step. The facility’s unique design and advanced amenities will play a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of badminton stars.”
With its blend of cutting-edge facilities and environmental consciousness, the Dalmia Bharat Pullela Gopichand Badminton Academy stands poised to redefine the landscape of Indian badminton, empowering young athletes to achieve global excellence.
