Chandigarh/Mohali, 17 January 2025: Chandigarh University became the first private institution to receive the prestigious MAKA Trophy (Maulana Abul Kalam Azad Trophy) since its inception in 1956-57 with President Draupadi Murmu presenting the award during the National Sports Awards 2024 ceremony held at Rashtrapati Bhawan.
Senior Managing Director Deep Inder Singh Sandhu and Pro Vice Chancellor Dr. Devinder Singh received the trophy on behalf of the university, according to reports.
During the ceremony, university student and Indian hockey team member Sanjay Kumar was also honored with the Arjuna Award for his exceptional performance in the national game, hockey.
Chandigarh University earned the MAKA Trophy for its stellar performance in the Khelo India University Games 2024, securing a record 71 medals—32 gold, 18 silver, and 21 bronze. The institution also boasted the highest representation at the 19th Asian Games, with 22 athletes competing as part of India’s contingent. Collectively, its sportspersons brought home 10 medals from the Asian Games.
Expressing his pride, Chandigarh University Chancellor and Member of Parliament Satnam Singh Sandhu said, “It’s an honor to receive the prestigious MAKA Trophy from the President of India. Our players have made us proud with this feat.”
Sandhu reiterated the university’s commitment to nurturing India’s next generation of athletes by providing scholarships, professional training, and state-of-the-art sports infrastructure.
“Currently, 1,183 students are availing scholarships worth ₹8.5 crore annually. Our focus is to train athletes who can achieve our Prime Minister Narendra Modi Ji’s vision of making India one of the top 10 sporting nations globally,” Sandhu added.
Read More: Chandigarh University Makes History, Wins Maka Trophy