Kulbhushan Singh Kukki, president of the Madhya Pradesh Pickleball Association (MPPA), said plans are underway to build a pickleball stadium with international-standard courts, while outlining a broader vision to make Indore a key hub for the sport in India. He made these remarks during the Surya Pickleball Tournament, an Indian Pickleball Association-sanctioned PWR 100 event held at the Surya Pickleball Academy in Indore from March 27.
The tournament featured around 90 players competing across 18 categories and saw strong participation from youngsters, reflecting the sport’s growing appeal in the region. The event concluded on a positive note, with organizers highlighting increased engagement and future development plans following its success.
Also Read: ‘Will Build International-Level Stadium’: MP Pickleball President Kulbhushan Lays Out Big Plans for Indore
Speaking to Pickleball Now, Kulbhushan pointed to the rising number of participants and the growing interest among new players.
“Many new participants have taken part in this tournament and many have been attracted to the sport. Coaches from Delhi and Ahmedabad also came here, which was important for the players,” he said.
He confirmed that the association would focus on strengthening the coaching structure in the state, with plans already in place.
“We have decided that in April, we will set up a coach training camp. We will prepare coaches from Madhya Pradesh for pickleball,” Kulbhushan said.
Kulbhushan also highlighted the enthusiasm among young players and spectators, noting that the sport was drawing attention across age groups.
“Everyone, from young kids to adults, is getting attracted to this sport. We expect to see good results in the next three months and produce national and international-level players,” he added.
Beyond Indore, the MPPA has begun efforts to expand the sport across the state. Kulbhushan said discussions had already taken place in Bhopal, with larger competitions and grassroots initiatives in the pipeline.
“We had a meeting in Bhopal and next month there will be a competition with around 200 players. We are planning events across districts in the next two months,” he said.
He also confirmed that a training camp for children would be organized soon. “In April, we will set up a camp for kids. They will receive physical training and learn about the game,” Kulbhushan said.
With infrastructure plans, coaching development and grassroots expansion underway, the MPPA is aiming to position Indore and Madhya Pradesh as important centers in India’s growing pickleball ecosystem.
Also Read: ‘Hope Pickleball Grows More’: Aman Bhawsar After Winning Advance Men’s Singles Title at Surya Pickleball Tournament
About Indian Pickleball Association:
The Indian Pickleball Association is the official governing body for pickleball in India and is dedicated to promoting, developing, and organizing the sport across the country. The association continues to inspire players of all ages and skill levels to embrace the game through events like the IPA Nationals. IPA is affiliated with the Asian Pickleball Association (APA) and the Global Pickleball Federation (GPF).
About Pickleball World Ranking:
PWR is a national ranking system that spans all age groups, skill divisions, and formats -including singles, doubles, and mixed categories. It serves as the official National Sports Federation Ranking for India. With multiple sanctioned events taking place every week across the country, PWR defines the top Indian players at every level and forms the foundation for team selection at the school, district, state, and national stages.
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(Written by Evince Das)
