<h1>University sports recognition: first private university awarded national MAKA Trophy, underscoring institutional athlete development and support.</h1> Chandigarh University was awarded the MAKA Trophy 2024 as the first private and youngest university to receive this national sports recognition, supported by its competitive record including top placement and 71 medals at the Khelo India University Games, medal contributions at the Asian Games and multiple Olympic qualifiers. A student, Sanjay Kumar, received the Arjuna Award for his hockey contributions. The university's success is presented as grounded in institutional sports policy, professional training, infrastructure, and significant scholarship and support provisions for athletes.