Srinagar: A National Referee and Jury Course organised by the Indian Pencak Silat Federation commenced on Saturday at the Sher-i-Kashmir Indoor Sports Complex with participation from sports officials, coaches and martial arts enthusiasts from across the country.
The four-day programme, being held from May 16 to May 19, is supported by the Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council and aims to strengthen technical standards and officiating excellence in the sport of Pencak Silat.
Secretary Sports Council Nuzhat Gul attended the opening ceremony as chief guest, while internationally renowned educator Titih Hayati was the guest of honour.
More than 200 coaches, referees and technical officials from different states and union territories are participating in the course, which organisers described as one of the largest technical gatherings of Pencak Silat professionals in the country.
The programme will focus on updated international refereeing standards, jury systems and modern officiating practices under expert guidance.
Addressing the participants, Nuzhat Gul appreciated the organisers for choosing Srinagar as the host city and stressed the importance of such national-level courses in promoting professionalism and sporting culture among youth.
She reiterated the Sports Council’s commitment to supporting emerging sports and creating opportunities for athletes and officials across Jammu and Kashmir.
Organisers said the event reflects the growing popularity of Pencak Silat in India and highlights Srinagar’s emergence as a venue for national sporting and martial arts events.
