HAI appoints handball legend Ranjit Singh to head veteran body

• Former India Captain to guide growth and revival of veteran handball

JAMMU: In a proud and inspiring moment for Indian sports, the Handball Association India (HAI) has nominated Mr. Ranjit Singh Chib as the President of the Indian Veteran Handball Association, recognizing a lifetime of dedication, discipline, and distinguished service to the game.

A retired Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) and the current President of the Jammu and Kashmir Masters Games Association, Ranjit Singh Chib is a name synonymous with excellence in Indian handball. His remarkable journey in the sport spans nearly two decades, from 1984 to 2002, during which he proudly represented both the Jammu and Kashmir Handball Team and the Indian National Handball Team.

Chib’s achievements on the court are nothing short of legendary. Over the course of his career, he clinched 9 Gold Medals, 10 Silver Medals, and 4 Bronze Medals in National Handball Championships—an extraordinary medal tally that cements his place among the greats of Indian handball. His brilliance was repeatedly recognized as he was named Best Player of the Tournament at the Inter Zonal Championships in Varanasi (1987), Nagpur (1990), Jammu (1989), and Vishakapatnam (1987). In 2002, the Jammu and Kashmir Handball Association honored him with the prestigious “Best Player of the Decade” award, celebrating his sustained excellence and leadership.

One of the defining moments of his career came in 1993, when he captained the Indian Handball Team at the 7th Asian Handball Championship in Bahrain. His calm leadership, strategic vision, and unyielding determination earned him deep respect from teammates and competitors alike. He further represented India in the 8th Asian Handball Championship in Kuwait (1995), the South Asian Handball Championship in Jaipur—where India proudly secured the Gold Medal—the International Cup in Narvorosisk, USSR (1990), and the Fajar Cup in Kirman, Iran (1996).

Beyond medals and matches, Chib’s contributions have been widely celebrated. In 1987, he received the prestigious “Sher-i-Kashmir” Sports Award from the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir. In 2006, he was honoured with First State Award,” receiving a Gold Medal and a cash award of one lakh rupees—testament to the enduring impact of his sporting legacy.

Announcing the nomination, Dr. Tejraj Singh, Secretary General of the Handball Association India, stated in an official letter: “We are pleased to inform you that considering your keen interest and active role in sports and social activities, you have been nominated as the President of the Indian Veteran Handball Association with immediate effect. Your experience, dedication, and continuous support towards the promotion and development of handball have been highly appreciated. We are confident that under your guidance the association will further strengthen and achieve new milestones. Congratulations and best wishes for a successful tenure.”

With his vast experience as an international athlete, decorated champion, and respected administrator, Ranjit Singh Chib now embarks on a new chapter—mentoring veteran players and strengthening the foundation of handball across generations. His journey from a celebrated player to a guiding force in sports administration stands as a powerful reminder that true leadership extends far beyond the field.

As the Indian Veteran Handball Association looks ahead, it does so under the stewardship of a man whose life has been defined by discipline, dedication, and an unwavering love for the sport—an appointment that promises not only progress, but inspiration for athletes across the nation.