CHANDIGARH: Aiming to promote the Gatka sport across the country at a grass root level, the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), an oldest registered national sports federation (NSF), will host the first Federation Gatka Cup, from April 21-23, 2023, at DAVIET Jalandhar, Punjab. The national tournament would witness participation from 15 states in the under-22 age category in which about 300 boys and girls would compete for the crown and medals.
Disclosing this here today, president of the NGAI Harjeet Singh Grewal, State Awardee, divulged that the NGAI would use digital scoreboard and introduce the computerised timing, scoring, and results (TSR) system for the first time to ensure promptness, accuracy and transparency in the competition. "A technical team would familiarise the Gatka technical officials with the newly developed TSR system a day before the tournament, he revealed.
He told that all participants and team managers would be provided with certificates and the winners to be awarded medals and trophies to acknowledge their success and achievements. The NGAI has arranged for free food, water, and comfortable accommodation for all participating teams and managers near the venue to take care of their basic needs, he added.
Giving more details Gatka promoter Grewal informed that the tournament organising committee has urged all participating state teams to bring their own playing kits. Besides, the official dress kit, allotted to each state, should be worn during competition, opening and closing ceremonies, he said.
He appealed to the public to be present and witness the thrill of Gatka during this mega national event, celebrate the excitement of rich cultural and historical significance of age old martial art Gatka. "The tournament promises to be an exciting and enjoyable experience for all, with the presence of esteemed personalities and the introduction of the digital TSR system", Grewal invoked.
The NGAI president assured that the NSF was committed to provide prompt, fair and transparent competition with imposition of digital technology as solicited by the players. He hoped that with the support of the government and the passion of all participating players, managers and the dedication of the organizers, this tournament would surely set an exclusive benchmark for future Gatka competitions in India and worldwide, he asserted.
He contended that the NGAI was committed to conduct the national competition in a professional and efficient manner and would adhere to the rules and regulations prescribed by the World Gatka Federation. Grewal averred that the Federation Cup would be an unforgettable experience for the participants and spectators alike being an action-packed event.