Punit Balan.
Industrialist and sports patron Punit Balan has been named Acting President of the Amateur Kabaddi Foundation of Maharashtra (AKFM) after receiving unanimous support from the organisation's executive committee.
The appointment was formalised during the foundation's annual general meeting held in Alandi, Pune district, where members deliberated on the future direction of the organisation and strategies to strengthen kabaddi administration across Maharashtra.
The meeting, presided over by Sapna Waghmode, was attended by Bharti Jagtap, executive members and representatives from the sports community. Discussions largely centred on enhancing organisational efficiency, ensuring transparency in operations and adopting a more professional approach to sports governance.
In recognition of his longstanding contribution to sports development, the committee entrusted Balan with the responsibility of leading the foundation in the role of Acting President. Balan, who heads the Punit Balan Group, has been actively involved in supporting sporting events, grassroots initiatives and athlete development programmes in the state.
Members expressed confidence that his experience in managing large-scale sporting projects would help modernise the functioning of the organisation and create better opportunities for emerging kabaddi players.
The proposal to appoint Balan was moved by Dnyanesh Kale from Satara and supported by Gokul Tandale of Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar before being approved unanimously by the house.
Following the announcement, Balan thanked the members for their confidence and pledged to work towards strengthening the sport at every level.
"kabaddi is an integral part of our sporting heritage. It is our responsibility to nurture and promote the game through transparent administration, systematic planning and greater opportunities for talented athletes. We will strive to ensure that deserving players from grassroots backgrounds receive the recognition and support they need," he said.
The foundation also resolved to expand its involvement in organising and promoting kabaddi competitions across Maharashtra and beyond. Future plans include leveraging technology in tournament operations, improving event management standards and enhancing the overall credibility of the organisation within the sporting ecosystem.
