Farrukh Kamal
Government support, revival of clubs and monthly stipends for talented players are urgently needed to restore the sport.
There was a time when table tennis enjoyed immense popularity in Karachi. The sport was played with great enthusiasm at clubs, sports centres and educational institutions across the city. Tournaments were held regularly, young players showcased their talent, and people associated with the game worked tirelessly to promote its growth. Table tennis was not merely a sport in Karachi; it was an important part of the city's sporting culture and a valuable avenue for young people to develop their skills and pursue a brighter future.
Several venues once served as active centres for table tennis, including Amroha Club in Gulberg, Markaz-e-Saqafat in Gulberg, Young Stars Club at Shadab Ground, Khan Liaquat Ali Khan Sports Complex in Federal B Area, Badr-ul-Hassan Sports Complex in Nazimabad, YMCA Club, Sharafabad Club, the table tennis hall at UBL Sports Complex, the table tennis hall at National College, Star Gate Airport Table Tennis Club, and Customs Table Tennis Club at NIPA. These clubs and facilities provided players with opportunities to practise, improve their techniques and participate in competitive events.
Unfortunately, these activities gradually declined over the years. Table tennis programmes became limited at many clubs, while the sport nearly disappeared from some venues. The regular organisation of tournaments was also affected. Many talented players moved abroad in search of better opportunities, while others were forced to abandon the sport because of financial difficulties, employment commitments and family responsibilities.
Lack of Government Support: A Major Cause of Decline
One of the major concerns surrounding the current state of table tennis in Karachi is the lack of adequate government attention, institutional support and financial assistance. The development of any sport depends not only on the dedication and abilities of its players but also on the sustained cooperation of government departments, sports organisations, educational institutions and the private sector.
In the past, institutions such as Karachi Port Trust (KPT), Karachi Development Authority (KDA), Sui Gas, Karachi Electric Corporation (KEC) and Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) played important roles in supporting sports. Their sports departments provided athletes with opportunities to develop their abilities and advance their careers. However, the decline in institutional sponsorship and the absence of consistent support have affected table tennis and several other sports.
The Government of Sindh and Karachi's municipal authorities must now take practical and effective measures to revive table tennis. Announcements alone are not enough. Existing clubs must be made functional, quality facilities must be provided, training centres must be maintained, and district-level, provincial and inter-club tournaments must be organised regularly.
Monthly Stipends for Talented Players
Many talented table tennis players continue to pursue their ambitions despite limited financial resources. Training expenses, travel costs, sports equipment and everyday financial pressures often become major obstacles to their progress. Under these circumstances, the Government of Sindh and the relevant sports authorities should introduce a regular monthly stipend programme for deserving and accomplished players on merit.
These stipends should not be limited to one-time financial assistance. Instead, they should provide consistent support, enabling athletes to concentrate on their training and performance without being overwhelmed by financial concerns. Selection should be based on transparent criteria, including performance, achievements in provincial and national competitions, and demonstrated potential.
Special assistance should also be provided to junior players so that the next generation can receive the support and opportunities it needs from an early stage. Investing in young athletes today will help establish a stronger foundation for the future of table tennis in Karachi.
Restore Sports-Based Admissions and Scholarships at Universities and Medical Colleges
Educational institutions can play a pivotal role in promoting table tennis and supporting talented athletes. In the past, sports-based admissions and other educational incentives provided players with an important pathway to academic and professional advancement.
The relevant authorities should therefore take steps to restore or effectively implement sports-based admissions and reserved seats, where applicable, at institutions such as the University of Karachi, NED University of Engineering and Technology, Dawood University of Engineering and Technology and its associated educational institutions, Sindh Medical College, and Dow Medical College.
Talented athletes in table tennis and other sports should be offered admission opportunities, scholarships and educational facilities through transparent, merit-based procedures. Such measures would reassure young people that sporting excellence is valued and can open doors to educational and professional success.
Universities and colleges should also accommodate the academic needs of student-athletes by providing suitable facilities, training opportunities and reasonable support during examinations. Sports and education should complement each other rather than force young people to choose between the two.
Revival of Clubs and Regular Tournaments Is Essential
The revival of table tennis in Karachi requires the restoration of previously active clubs and the reinstatement of table tennis facilities wherever feasible. Sports centres should provide suitable tables, quality equipment, qualified coaches and designated practice hours. At the same time, a regular programme of competitions should be introduced at school, college, university and community levels.
A comprehensive development system should ensure equal opportunities for junior, senior and women players. Promising athletes should be identified and prepared for provincial and national competitions through structured coaching and regular competitive exposure.
The private sector and corporate organisations should also be encouraged to support table tennis clubs, sponsor tournaments and provide financial assistance to promising athletes. Public-private partnerships could help improve facilities, organise competitions and create sustainable development programmes.
If these measures are implemented consistently, they could breathe new life into the sport, encourage young people to participate in healthy activities and help restore Karachi's sporting identity.
An Appeal to the Government of Sindh and Karachi's Municipal Authorities
The decline of table tennis is not merely the decline of a sport. It also concerns the future of young people, the promotion of healthy activities and the preservation of an important sporting tradition.
The Government of Sindh, Karachi's municipal authorities, the provincial Sports Department and relevant educational institutions are urged to make the revival of table tennis a priority. Clubs should be reactivated, monthly stipends should be introduced for deserving players, sports-based educational opportunities should be restored, and dedicated funding should be allocated for regular tournaments.
If serious steps are not taken now, Karachi risks losing even more of its historic identity in table tennis. However, coordinated efforts by the government, educational institutions, sports organisations and the private sector could help the sport regain its former momentum.
Karachi's golden era of table tennis was once a source of pride for the city. This legacy must not be allowed to survive only in memories. It needs to be revived through concrete action. Clubs must once again become vibrant sporting centres, players must receive financial security, young people must have access to educational and professional opportunities, and table tennis halls must once again echo with the energy and enthusiasm of aspiring athletes.
It is hoped that the Government of Sindh and Karachi's municipal authorities will respond to this appeal by taking immediate and long-term measures to revive table tennis, ensuring that this cherished sport can reclaim its rightful place in the city's sporting landscape.
