Says that AI, IT tech to be infused for ensuring transparency, efficiency and exegesis in Gatka competitions
Hyderabad, May 1 (Punjab Khabarnama) : Gatka, the ancient Indian martial art, is steadily making strides towards getting recognition on the global stage, with concerted efforts by international bodies – the World Gatka Federation (WGF) and the Asian Gatka Federation. Spearheading these endeavors Harjeet Singh Grewal, President of the WGF, shared insights into the progress made in this regard during a press briefing held at the Hyderabad Press Club on Wednesday.
Highlighting the aspirations of Gatka practitioners and enthusiasts worldwide, Grewal revealed the persistent endeavor to secure inclusion of Gatka in prestigious sporting events like the Asian Games and, ultimately, the Olympics. Outlining their efforts, he revealed plans for holding first Asian Gatka Championship later this year, anticipated to feature men and women teams from a minimum of ten countries.
Expounding on Gatka’s expanding footprints beyond its traditional bastions in Northern India and its journey towards global recognition, Gatka promoter Harjeet Singh Grewal unveiled plans for the maiden World Gatka Championship slated for 2026 in North America. This landmark event aims to showcase the rich heritage and growing global appeal of age old Gatka to sports regulatory bodies worldwide.
Delving into recent achievements within India, WGF president Grewal highlighted Gatka’s inclusion in prominent national sporting events such as the National Games and the Khelo India Youth Games, underscoring its growing recognition and popularity. Additionally, he outlined the recognition to Gatka game by the Association of Indian Universities in 2015 for All India Inter-University tournaments and the School Games Federation of India in 2023 for National School Games in furtherance to foster Gatka talent at various levels across the country.
Responding to queries, Grewal, who is also serving as President of the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), an oldest registered national Gatka organisation in India, provided insights into the concerted efforts being made by its 22 state Gatka Associations, affiliated with the NGAI, towards promoting and standardizing the sport nationwide. He added that efforts were being made to constitute state units in remaining states and union territories.
Looking ahead, Grewal revealed collaborative initiatives between WGF and NGAI to integrate cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and information technology, aimed at ensuring and enhancing the efficiency, transparency, and analysis of Gatka competitions besides help in maintaining tournament records and data. These efforts are poised to revolutionize the conduct of Gatka events, ushering in a new era of innovation and excellence in this revered martial art, he said.
Among others present on the occasion included President of Telangana Gatka Association Sukhdev Singh, Vice Presidents Gurmeet Singh Pahadia, Gurinderpal Singh and General Secretary Vishal Singh, Joint Secretary Harmesh Singh Ranjan, Advisors Gurcharan Singh Bagga and Pritam Singh, Executive members Jasbeer Singh, Gurnam Singh, Gurvender Singh, Nanak Singh.