New Delhi, 19th June 2025: Dr. Pankaj Shukla, founder of “Gramya” and “Asre” organizations active in social welfare development for the past 22 years and the architect of the “Samriddh Gram, Samriddh Bharat” (Prosperous Village, Prosperous India) campaign, has been appointed as the National Vice President of the Karate Association of India (KAI). KAI is the national governing body recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of India. This decision is considered a significant step towards strengthening the organization, ensuring broader participation of rural youth, and empowering the spirit of nation-building through sports.
Dr. Pankaj Shukla stated, “Karate is not just a sport, but a way of life. It instills self-belief, discipline, and leadership values in young people.” He added that his goal is to take karate to every village, every school, and every youth, thereby realizing Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s ‘Fit India‘ and ‘Khelo India‘ visions at the grassroots level.
Through his unique initiative, the women-centric self-defense campaign: “Shringar Bane Hathiyar” (Make Adornment Your Weapon), Dr. Shukla is empowering women by providing them with self-defense training. This campaign has so far provided confidence and security to hundreds of female students and rural women.
KAI officials believe that under Dr. Shukla‘s leadership, karate will take the form of a national movement, providing countless athletes with the opportunity to reach international platforms. The organization trusts that he will play a crucial role in developing sports infrastructure and nurturing talent in rural India.
Dr. Pankaj Shukla‘s appointment is expected to be a milestone not only for the world of karate but also for rural development, youth empowerment, and women’s safety initiatives.