Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 20 September 2023
The Armed Police Unit of the Andaman & Nicobar Police is hosting a week-long open-to-all Badminton Championship titled “DGP Cup” in support of the “Fit India” initiative by the Government of India. The championship, which aims to promote fitness and camaraderie among the police personnel and their families, commenced with a grand inauguration on September 18, 2023, at the Multipurpose Indoor Hall, Netaji Stadium.
The event’s inauguration saw the Director General of Police, Mr. Devesh Chandra Srivastva, taking centre stage as he ceremoniously tossed the coin to mark the official start of the championship. In his inaugural address, DGP Srivastva praised the Police Department for organizing such an event, underlining the importance of participation in sports and games for the overall fitness of police personnel. He emphasized that the “DGP Cup” would not only showcase exceptional badminton skills but also foster unity and camaraderie within the police force. The DGP highlighted that such tournaments should be seen as a means to promote a healthier and more vibrant India, extending beyond the court’s victory.
To encourage Esprit de Corps, the tournament has been opened to Gazetted Officers from all departments of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration. Additionally, there is a separate category for children of Police personnel, aimed at instilling a sense of community among all ranks and their families. Over the course of the week-long tournament, a total of 90 matches will be played featuring 65 participants.
The inaugural match, which unfolded between ASI (C) Tamilarasan and Constable Arvind Purti, captivated the audience with thrilling rallies and displays of skill. Tamilarasan emerged victorious after a hard-fought contest, defeating Purti in three sets with scores of 18-21, 21-19, and 22-20.
The “DGP Cup” Badminton Championship is being meticulously coordinated by SI MA Rasheed, the In-Charge of Sports, and Inspector Solomon Samuel, with guidance from Miss. Yogita Sharma, DySP (APU), under the overall supervision of Ms. Niharika Bhatt, IPS, Superintendent of Police, APU.