The World Gatka Federation (WGF), in association with the National Gatka Association of India (NGAI), the oldest registered Gatka organization in the country, has taken a significant stride in expanding its global footprint with the establishment of the International Affairs Directorate. Renowned social activist and former councillor Phool Raj Singh state awardee has been appointed as the chairman of this directorate, marking a pivotal moment in the promotion of the martial art Gatka on an international stage.
Disclosing this here today WGF President Harjeet Singh Grewal and General Secretary Dr Deep Singh informed that the primary mission of the International Affairs Directorate is to elevate martial art form of Gatka to the status of a recognized sport worldwide. "This objective would be achieved through the formation of national Gatka Federations in various countries, which would serve as the foundations for the sport's growth worldwide" they added.
Congratulating Phool Raj Singh for the new responsibility they informed that directorate's other responsibilities include facilitating training and coaching to the players and supporting existing 'Akharas' (traditional Gatka training centers) in various countries. These efforts would culminate in the organization of national Gatka competitions within respective countries and the participation of Gatka teams from around the world in prestigious events such as the Asian and Commonwealth Gatka Championships, leading up to the World Gatka Championship, they added.
Harjeet Singh Grewal, who is also the President of the NGAI, formally presented an appointment letter to state award winner Phool Raj Singh during a simple ceremony that witnessed the presence of well-known music producer Jarnail Ghumaan in SAS Nagar. On the occasion NGAI Vice President Inderjodh Singh said the WGF and NGAI's latest move underlines its commitment to promoting Gatka as a systematic and recognized sport on the international stage.
Chandigarh Gatka Association Secretary Rajdeep Singh Bali stressed that formation of national Gatka Federations in various countries and the strategic establishment of the International Affairs Directorate are pivotal steps in the journey to establish Gatka as a global sport of significance. The event was attended by Bhagwan Singh Gill, Gurmeet Singh Saini, Balraj Singh Brar, Nihal Singh, Harpal Singh, Manjit Singh and Jasmeet Singh Jassi. Extending a warm welcome to Phool Raj Singh on his appointment, they expressed their confidence that he would lead Gatka to unprecedented heights through this directorate.