Chandigarh, Dec. 18: Sports administrators on Thursday described the partnership between NIILM University, Kaithal, and the National Gatka Association of India as a step toward strengthening grassroots development and talent identification in Gatka.
Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal, president of the NGAI, said the agreement envisions systematic talent scouting, capacity building for technical officials and wider promotion of the sport through academic and competitive platforms.
“Universities are ideal spaces for nurturing indigenous sports and giving them contemporary relevance,” Grewal said. “This collaboration will help create a sustainable ecosystem for Gatka.”
As part of the arrangement, the NGAI will deploy trained coaches and technical officials and facilitate national-level competitions, while NIILM University will offer facilities and logistical support.
Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, general secretary of the Haryanvi Gatka Association, said the partnership reflects growing recognition of Gatka as both a traditional martial art and a modern sporting discipline.
“This MoU is a decisive step toward ensuring that Gatka receives the structure and visibility it deserves,” Kalsani said.
Officials said the initiative is expected to strengthen Haryana’s role in promoting indigenous sports while opening new pathways for students interested in pursuing Gatka competitively and academically.
