Sri Vijaya Puram, July 13: The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Unity Cup Badminton Tournament–2026, organized by the Andaman & Nicobar Police, concluded on a grand and inspiring note today with a vibrant Closing Ceremony celebrating sportsmanship, unity, fitness, and community participation. The ceremony was graced by Shri Ravindra Singh Yadav, IPS, Director General of Police, A&N Islands, as the Chief Guest, in the presence of distinguished guests, sportspersons, media representatives, sponsors, and sports enthusiasts.
Organized from 09 to 12 July 2026 under the theme “Sports for Fitness, Unity and a Drug-Free Society,” the tournament was aimed at promoting a sporting culture among youth, encouraging physical and mental well-being, fostering healthy competition, and reinforcing the values of discipline, unity, and a drug-free society.
Addressing the gathering, Shri Ravindra Singh Yadav, IPS, congratulated all participants for their exemplary sportsmanship, dedication, and discipline. He emphasized that sports are not merely competitions but powerful instruments for character building, leadership development, social harmony, and nation-building.
The tournament achieved a significant milestone by recording 116 entries/teams across 12 events, making it the largest badminton tournament ever organized by the Andaman & Nicobar Police. The overwhelming response reflected the growing popularity of badminton in the Islands and the increasing public confidence in the initiatives of the Andaman & Nicobar Police to promote sports, community engagement, physical fitness, and a drug-free lifestyle.
Highlighting the inclusive spirit of the event, the tournament witnessed participation from 10-year-old Miss Aaradhya, the youngest participant, to 61-year-old Mrs. Baby Nazrana, the senior-most participant, demonstrating that sports transcend age and inspire individuals across generations. Participants represented Government Departments, Educational Institutions, Sports Clubs, the Police Force, and the general public, making the tournament a true celebration of community participation and social cohesion.
The Chief Guest congratulated all the winners and appreciated every participant for their commitment and sporting spirit. He encouraged those who could not secure podium finishes to continue pursuing excellence with dedication, perseverance, and discipline. He further highlighted that badminton develops physical fitness, concentration, resilience, quick decision-making, teamwork, and self-confidence—qualities that contribute significantly to success in every sphere of life. He also encouraged parents to actively support their children in balancing academics with sports for their holistic growth and development.
The Andaman & Nicobar Police expressed sincere gratitude to all sponsors and supporting organizations for their invaluable financial and logistical assistance. Special appreciation was extended to the State Bank of India (SBI) and the Department of Sports & Youth Affairs, Andaman & Nicobar Administration, whose generous support played a vital role in the successful conduct of the tournament.
Reaffirming its commitment to youth empowerment and community welfare, the Andaman & Nicobar Police emphasized that, alongside maintaining law and order, it remains dedicated to promoting sports as an effective medium for building healthier communities, strengthening police-public partnership, and steering young minds away from substance abuse.
Named in honour of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, whose ideals of national unity, discipline, and collective responsibility continue to inspire the nation, the tournament successfully reinforced its enduring message—“Sports for Fitness, Unity and a Drug-Free Society.”