State Minister for Youth and Sports Md Aminul Haque today unveiled a five-year plan to elevate Bangladesh badminton to international standards through grassroots talent development, year-round training and international competition at home and abroad.

Inaugurating the 40th National Badminton Championship at Shaheed Tajuddin Ahmed Indoor Stadium in the capital, Aminul said the plan included hosting at least three international tournaments in Bangladesh, inviting foreign teams and sending local shuttlers abroad to gain competitive experience.

He said the government also planned to form badminton committees in every district and organise regular tournaments to identify and nurture emerging talent.

The six-day championship, running until October 28, features a record 616 shuttlers, including 535 men and 81 women, from 88 teams representing districts, divisions, education boards, universities and various organisations.

The tournament offers Taka ten lakh in total prize money, with an electric bike as a special prize for the best player.

Aminul said the 'Notun Kuri Sports' programme would be launched nationwide on November 5, beginning at Khulna District Stadium, with badminton among the included disciplines.

Year-round training in selected sports, including badminton, football, hockey, archery and shooting, is scheduled to begin in January next year, he added.

Describing the record participation as a positive milestone for the country's sports, the state minister credited the players for the achievement and thanked athletes, media personnel, guardians and families who had travelled from different parts of the country.

He urged players not to be discouraged by defeat but to keep striving for success with patriotism and determination.

National Sports Council Executive Director Daulatuzzaman Khan attended the inaugural ceremony as a special guest. 

Bangladesh Badminton Federation General Secretary Kazi Hasibur Rahman and other officials were also present.