Long winters make indoor sport a year-round need in Kashmir. Badminton and table tennis are the easiest to fit into school halls and community centres, as long as the space is set up properly.

Choosing the hall

Look for a flat, non-slippery floor, good light and enough height. Badminton needs the most height: a shuttle hit high toward the back of the court climbs fast, so the higher the ceiling the better, and beams or lights hanging low will interrupt play. Table tennis needs far less height but more floor space around the table than most people expect.

Badminton court basics

A doubles court is 13.4 metres long and 6.1 metres wide, and the singles court is 5.18 metres wide. Leave clear space around the court so players do not run into walls. The net stands 1.55 metres high at the posts and 1.524 metres at the centre.

Mark lines with tape made for sports floors so it can be removed without damage. Wooden or synthetic court flooring gives grip and some cushioning; on hard concrete, portable badminton mats protect players' knees and ankles.

Table tennis set-up

A standard table is 2.74 metres long and 1.525 metres wide, with the top 76 cm above the floor. For practice, allow several metres behind each end and space on both sides so players can move. Competition areas need much more room. Choose a table with lockable wheels if it has to be moved after each session.

Lighting

Light the hall evenly, without bright lamps directly in players' eyes. Windows behind a badminton court cause glare, so add blinds. LED panels give good, even light at low running cost.

Looking after the facility

Sweep floors before every session; dust makes courts slippery. Wipe table tennis tops with a dry or slightly damp cloth, never with harsh cleaners. Damp halls warp wooden tables, so keep the room ventilated, and put mats at the entrance to catch snow and water from shoes.

Where to buy

MDF Enterprises in Srinagar sells genuine YONEX badminton rackets, shuttles and nets, and STAG table tennis tables, and delivers across J&K. Schools and departments can order through the GeM portal.