Photo Source; Babushahi Bureau
National Gatka Association to train and certify Gatka officials nationwide; Chandigarh to host 3-day intensive program
Babushahi Bureau
Chandigarh, December 10, 2025: In a major step to professionalize and standardize Gatka officiating across the country, the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), the apex national body affiliated with the World Gatka Federation (WGF), has announced the launch of its 3rd National Gatka Refresher Course. The three-day intensive program will be held from December 12 to 14, 2025, in Sector 53, Chandigarh.
NGAI President and State Awardee Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal said the initiative aims to enhance officiating quality, ensure uniform rule implementation, and prepare a skilled corps of certified referees, judges and technical officials.
“This refresher course is central to our mission of creating a national standard of excellence in Gatka officiating. We want our officials to confidently represent India on the global stage,” Grewal said.
Course in-charge and Vice Chairman of the International Sikh Martial Art Academy, Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, along with NGAI General Secretary Harjinder Kumar, shared that the 20-hour curriculum will include extensive theoretical and practical modules. These will sharpen participants’ knowledge of the sport’s technicalities as well as on-field decision-making.
A written examination will be conducted for grading and certification. Successful candidates will receive their credentials at the concluding ceremony, while top performers earning higher grades will be issued smart identity cards.
Gatka promoter Grewal further emphasized that the certification is not just a formal qualification but a gateway to officiating at upcoming national and international Gatka championships.
“This is an investment in the future of Gatka. We are building a disciplined, qualified and technically strong officiating force to propel the sport to greater heights,” he said.
Camp organizer and Joint Secretary of the Gatka Association of Punjab, Baljit Singh Saini, noted that NGAI remains committed to preserving, promoting and transforming the traditional Sikh martial art into a globally recognized competitive sport. The body continues to lead national championships, training programs, deployment of technical officials and development initiatives across India.