Ratia, August 29: With the aim of taking the sport of Gatka to new heights in Haryana, the 4th Haryana State Junior and Senior Gatka Championship 2026 (Men and Women) will be held on September 5 and 6, 2026, at the Guru Nanak Defence and Sports Academy, Ratia, District Fatehabad. A large number of players from various districts of Haryana will participate in this state-level competition to showcase their talent, technique, and sporting skills.
Swarn Singh Ratia, Chairman of the Gatka Association of Haryana, stated that district-level Gatka competitions are being organized across various districts of Haryana in preparation for the state championship. Players are being selected for the state-level event through these competitions. The enthusiasm among players in the district competitions is remarkable, with a large number of young Gatka players participating with great zeal.
To ensure the state-level competition is organized smoothly and successfully, important meetings involving all coaches and referees from Haryana will be held on August 31 and September 4. Additionally, preparations are being continuously reviewed via online Zoom meetings. Detailed discussions are taking place regarding the competition's sporting arrangements, player accommodation and meals, the playing arena, officiating arrangements, and other necessary logistics.

**Inauguration on September 5, Conclusion on September 6**
The championship's inaugural ceremony will take place on September 5, 2026, at 9:00 AM, followed by the commencement of various matches. The competition will continue on September 6, culminating in the closing ceremony. Players, coaches, and referees from various districts of Haryana will participate in the event.

**Matches Across Six Age Categories**
Age categories of U-11, U-14, U-17, U-19, U-25, and U-30 have been designated for both men's and women's sections in the competition. Players will have the opportunity to showcase their talent in individual and team events featuring Weapon Demonstration, Fari-Soti combat, and Single-Soti combat.
The deadline for registration to participate in the competition has been extended to September 1, 2026. It is mandatory for all district teams to bring their sports kits and a district flag measuring 3×2 feet.

**Comprehensive arrangements for the convenience of players**
Gurjeet Singh, Managing Director, and Sumit Kumar, Head Coach of Guru Nanak Defence and Sports Academy, stated that extensive preparations are underway to ensure the success of the state-level Gatka Championship. Special arrangements are being made regarding accommodation, meals, the sports arena, and other necessary facilities for the players.
They mentioned that a large number of players and sports officials from various districts of Haryana would be attending the event. Additionally, numerous dignitaries, sports enthusiasts, and social activists will be present to encourage the participants.
They stated that the primary objective of this championship is to further promote the sport of Gatka in Haryana, provide a better platform for young talent, and prepare players for state and national-level competitions.