Handball India Certificates Declared Invalid

Shimla Sept 17: The Railway Ministry has barred the use of sports certificates issued by Handball Association India and its affiliated state or district units for recruitment, promotions, awards, pension benefits, or any other service-related matters. The decision follows the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s 2023 order suspending the recognition granted to the association by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and the Indian Olympic Association. As per Railway Board letter dated August 28, 2025, certificates issued after September 5, 2023, under this body will not be valid for railway sports quota recruitment.

The move has created uncertainty for players across India, including Himachal Pradesh, who participated in national tournaments organized by the association in the past two years. Himachal Handball Association President, Deshraj Thakur, confirmed the development and cautioned players against participating in events held by Handball Association India or its units. The matter is pending further hearing in December 2025.