Sikkim is set to script history as it has been officially selected to host the 49th Yonex Sunrise Junior National Badminton Championship (Individual & Team – U-19) 2026. The prestigious tournament has been allotted by the Badminton Association of India, marking the first time the state will organize a national-level badminton championship of this scale.

The event will bring together some of the finest junior badminton talents from across the country, offering a major platform for young athletes to compete at the highest level. It is expected to significantly boost the sporting profile of Sikkim while encouraging the growth of badminton among local youth.

Expressing his gratitude, Jacob Khaling, President of the Badminton Association of Sikkim, thanked Himanta Biswa Sharma, who is also the President of BAI, along with Sanjay Mishra, Honorary General Secretary, and the BAI Executive Committee for placing their trust in Sikkim.

The championship will be organized under the chief patronship of Prem Singh Tamang, with the state government and sports authorities extending full support to ensure the successful conduct of the tournament. Organizers have assured that all necessary arrangements will be made to meet national standards and deliver a memorable experience for players and officials.

This landmark event is expected to inspire a new generation of athletes in Sikkim by giving them exposure to top-level competition. It will also provide a valuable opportunity for local players to showcase their talent on a national stage.

With preparations set to begin soon, the badminton fraternity and sports enthusiasts across the state have been urged to come forward and contribute towards making the championship a grand success.

A shocking incident has surfaced from Yangang, where former panchayat member Sabitri Sharma was found dead under suspicious circumstances inside her residence in Sripatam village.

According to local, Sabitri Sharma, who lived alone, was discovered inside her home, raising serious concerns among local residents. The incident has created fear in the area, as the exact cause of her death remains unknown.

Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the case is a murder or an unnatural death. Police have reached the spot and initiated a detailed investigation. The body is likely to be sent for post-mortem to ascertain the exact cause of death.