10th National Gatka Championship Kicks Off in Ratia, players from 21 states to compete

Ratia: The 10th National Gatka Championship began with great enthusiasm at the Guru Nanak Defence and Sports Academy in Ratia, Haryana. Organised by the Gatka Association of Haryana in collaboration with the Gatka Federation of India, the national-level competition will see players from 21 states showcase their talent and sporting skills.

The championship was inaugurated by former Sports Minister and former president of the Olympic Association, international shooter Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi, and former Member of Parliament and BJP Haryana vice-president Sunita Duggal.

Among those present on the occasion were Gatka Federation of India general secretary Sardar Baljinder Singh Toor, Gatka Association of Haryana president Swarn Singh Ratia, Ratia Block Samiti chairman Vikas Kumar, Urban Mandal president Ankit Singla and CM Window eminent person Sunil Indora.

Gatka promotes courage, discipline and self-defence

Addressing the gathering, Rana Gurmeet Singh Sodhi said Gatka was a proud martial art rooted in Sikh tradition that instils courage, discipline, self-confidence and a spirit of self-defence among young people.

He described the organisation of a national-level championship in Ratia as a matter of pride for the region. He added that participation from 21 states would help the sport gain wider recognition and provide young athletes with a valuable platform to demonstrate their abilities.

Inclusion in Khelo India boosts youth participation

Sunita Duggal said enthusiasm for the sport among children had increased since the Government of India incorporated Gatka into the Khelo India programme.

She encouraged the participants to compete in the true spirit of sportsmanship and use their talent to bring recognition to their region and the country.

National Championship gives Ratia wider recognition

The participation of athletes from 21 states has made the championship an important event for the sporting community. Hosting a national-level competition is expected to encourage sporting activities in the region and bring Ratia greater recognition across the country.

Athletes from different states will demonstrate their techniques, agility, talent and competitive skills during the championship.

Traditional Martial Arts reflects Sikh heritage

Gatka is a traditional martial art associated with Sikh heritage and is regarded as a symbol of courage, discipline, self-control and physical fitness.

The sport plays an important role in encouraging confidence, concentration and a disciplined lifestyle among young people. National-level competitions such as this also help preserve traditional sports and promote their wider acceptance among younger generations.

How can Athletes get a platform to showcase their talent

The championship will give participants valuable experience of competing at the national level and an opportunity to refine their sporting abilities.

The involvement of athletes from 21 states has added significance to the event, generating excitement among sports enthusiasts in Ratia. The competition is expected to contribute to the promotion of traditional martial arts and help introduce Gatka to a new generation of athletes.