Patna: CM Samrat Choudhary on Sunday inaugurated the 52nd Junior National Boys Kabaddi Championship-2026 at Patliputra Sports Complex in Patna. A total of 29 teams from across the country are taking part in the four-day tournament, which will continue till Nov 4.The championship is being held on two courts. An official said players’ performances could help them secure selection in the national team and attract the attention of Pro Kabaddi League franchises.Addressing the players, Choudhary said Bihar was strengthening its sports infrastructure to encourage athletes and host major competitions. He said 20 new sports complexes were being built across the state to provide better facilities and help Bihar emerge as a destination for national and international sporting events.He asked officials to arrange visits for players from other states to major historical, cultural and tourist destinations in Bihar. Describing the visiting teams as “brand ambassadors of Bihar”, he said they should return with a positive impression of the state.Choudhary welcomed the players and their parents, interacted with participants from different states and wished them success. He said hosting a national-level kabaddi championship was a matter of pride for Bihar.He said sports instil discipline, self-confidence, team spirit and leadership among young people, urging players to compete with enthusiasm and fairness. Citing Haryana’s strong record in kabaddi and other sports, he encouraged Bihar’s players to aim for similar excellence and win more medals in the coming years.Around 50 officials have been deployed to oversee the technical conduct of the tournament. Accommodation and food arrangements have been made for approximately 615 participants, officials said.
