Hoshiarpur’s Jagmohan clears world’s top karate referee exam

In a proud moment for Hoshiarpur and the entire state of Punjab, internationally acclaimed karate referee and coach Sensei Jagmohan Vij has made history by clearing the World Karate Federation (WKF) Referee ‘A’ examination in Paris, France. This milestone makes him the first referee from North and Central India to earn the highest global qualification in karate refereeing.

The prestigious four-day Referee Course was held alongside the WKF World Karate Championship qualifying event, under the leadership of Javier Escalante, chairman of the WKF Referee Commission (Sweden), and Eva Mona Altman, secretary of the WKF Referee Commission (Germany).

The examination panel included top international referees and members of the WKF Referee Commission such as Mansour Al Sultan (Kuwait), Fariba Madani (USA), Guido Abdalla (Guatemala), Yasuhisa Abe (Japan), Llewellyn Rhoda (South Africa), Ma Junting (China), Jaber Al Zaabi (UAE) and Pinar Guzel Gurbuz (Turkey).

Participants underwent rigorous theoretical and practical assessments, performing as referees, judges and match supervisors under simulated world championship conditions. Sensei Vij’s consistent excellence, sharp judgement and calm leadership earned him the WKF Kumite Referee ‘A’ licence, placing him among the world’s most qualified karate referees.

Following his success, Sensei Vij was also chosen to officiate at the 2025 World Karate Championship, where he served as Video Review Supervisor, Match Supervisor, Judge and Referee, representing India with distinction.

Over the years, he has attended several WKF and AKF Referee Courses since 2021 and officiated at global events in Turkey, Italy and France. Known internationally for his integrity, discipline and fairness, he continues to raise India’s profile in the sport.

Congratulating him on his achievement, Hanshi Bharat Sharma, president of the Karate India Organisation (KIO), said, “Sensei Jagmohan Vij has brought great honour to India and the KIO family. His hard work and sincerity are an inspiration for every young karate referee and coach in the country.”

Sensei Vij also received special appreciation from Sensei Shaheen Akhtar, Sensei Premjeet Sen, Sensei Paramjeet Singh, Sensei Haridas Govind, Sensei Anup Ashok Dethe, Sensei Vijay Kumar Dugru, Sensei Jitesh Nair and Sensei Shaji Kottaram.

Expressing his gratitude, Sensei Jagmohan Vij said, “This honour is not just mine — it represents the dedication, sacrifice, and spirit of our entire karate fraternity in North India. I am deeply thankful to KIO president Shihan Bharat Sharma, general secretary Sensei Sanjeev Jangra and our seniors for their constant guidance and faith. My commitment remains to uphold fairness, respect and excellence in every championship I serve.”

As news of his achievement spread, Hoshiarpur and Punjab celebrated the milestone with pride. Sensei Vij’s journey stands as a testament to how talent, discipline and determination from small towns can shine on the world stage, bringing glory to India.