Ahmedabad: Reinforcing India’s growing commitment to sports excellence and fitness-driven nation building, the 4th National Armwrestling & Para Armwrestling Championship 2026 was inaugurated at Rashtriya Raksha University (RRU), Gandhinagar. The championship is being jointly organized by Rashtriya Raksha University, the Armwrestling Federation of Gujarat, and the People’s Armwrestling Federation India (PAFI) from May 29 to June 2, 2026.
The championship has attracted participation from more than 2,000 athletes representing 27 states, making it one of the largest armwrestling events ever organized in India. The event reflects the growing popularity of armwrestling as a competitive sport and showcases the increasing enthusiasm among athletes nationwide.
Addressing the gathering, RRU Vice-Chancellor Prof. (Dr.) Bimal N. Patel highlighted India’s remarkable rise on the global sporting stage and emphasized the role of sports in national development, youth empowerment, discipline, and excellence. He noted that initiatives promoting competitive sports align closely with the vision of Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen India’s sporting culture while nurturing values of fitness, determination, and character.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by Dr. Dharmesh K. Prajapati, Registrar; Prof. (Dr.) Kalpesh H. Wandra, Pro-Vice Chancellor; Mr. Yash Sharma, Director, School of Physical Education and Sports; Sports Training Officer Mr. Kalpesh Sharma; along with senior university officials and distinguished guests.
Bollywood actor Suniel Shetty, through a special message, encouraged young Indians to actively participate in sports and embrace fitness as a way of life. He emphasized that discipline, dedication, and perseverance developed through sports contribute significantly to building a stronger nation.
The event is also supported by leading figures from the armwrestling community, including Preeti Jhangiani, President of the People’s Armwrestling Federation India, and Praveen Dabas of the Pro Panja League, alongside representatives and office-bearers of the Armwrestling Federation of Gujarat.
The championship marks a significant milestone in the sport’s growth trajectory. It builds upon the success of the 3rd PAFI National Armwrestling Championship held in Thrissur, Kerala, which witnessed participation from around 1,700 athletes across 25 states. This year’s edition at RRU has surpassed previous records with more than 2,000 athletes from 27 states.
Hosting the championship further strengthens Rashtriya Raksha University’s capabilities in organizing large-scale national sporting events. The initiative forms part of the university’s broader vision as it prepares to host the 2029 World Police and Fire Games. It also complements Gujarat’s expanding role in India’s sports ecosystem and supports Ahmedabad’s aspirations to host the 2036 Olympic Games. The championship is expected to provide a significant platform for athletes across categories while contributing to the development of a robust sporting culture and strengthening India’s long-term sporting ambitions.