CHANDIGARH, Dec 15— The National Gatka Association of India on Monday concluded a three-day national refresher course with a written examination aimed at grading and certifying referees and judges, a move officials said would raise officiating standards in the traditional martial sport.
The examination will determine the eligibility of officials to officiate at national-level Gatka competitions, marking a shift toward structured certification, NGAI officials said.
Addressing the valedictory session, NGAI President Advocate Harjeet Singh Grewal said the initiative was designed to ensure consistency in rule interpretation and fairness during tournaments.
“Only certified referees and judges, assessed through structured theory and practical evaluation, will now be entrusted with officiating responsibilities at national championships and major events,” Grewal said.
He said the refresher course and assessment were part of a long-term plan to align Gatka officiating with international practices.
Grewal announced that the next National Gatka Refresher Course will be held in Bhilai, Chhattisgarh, in January in association with the New Gatka Sports Association Chhattisgarh. Similar programmes will be conducted across the country to expand the pool of trained officials, he added.
In another announcement, Grewal said the amended fifth edition of the World Gatka Federation International Rules Book would be released soon.
“The updated edition incorporates reforms and practical insights drawn from national and international competitions,” he said.
Participants from several states described the course as a valuable learning experience. Aman Singh of Chhattisgarh and Pandurang Ambhure of Maharashtra said the combination of classroom instruction and practical sessions improved their understanding of officiating and competition management.
Sukhchain Singh Kalsani, vice chairman of the International Sikh Martial Art Council, said the initiative reflected a move toward structured governance and accountability in Gatka.
