Grassroots programme aimed at introducing Olympic discipline to school and college going students before the 2028 Olympics through a hands-on ‘10-shot experience’
The NRAI (National Rifle Association of India) announced a nationwide grassroots programme aimed at introducing Olympic discipline to school and college going students before the 2028 Olympics through a hands-on ‘10-shot experience’.
The grassroots project in collaboration with institutions such as Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE), Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS), universities, school boards, and state units affiliated to the NRAI is expected to further strengthen the ecosystem.
On the occasion of its 75th anniversary, the NRAI announced its grassroots initiative here in Delhi on Monday.
Precision shooting is one of the Olympic disciplines that has fetched India seven Olympic medals, including historic gold at 2008 Games.
At the 2004 Athens Olympic Games shotgun shooter Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore won silver in double trap. Four years later India’s rifle shooter Abhinav Bindra became the first individual gold medallist (10m air rifle) at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.
Indian shooting squad continued their successful campaign at the Olympic Games as rifle shooter Gagan Narang won bronze and Vijay Kumar won silver in 25m rapid pistol.
After a gap of eight years, the Indian shooting team won three bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games through Manu Bhaker (10m air pistol), Sarabjot Singh (mixed 10m air pistol) and Swapnil Kusale (50m rifle 3p).
As part of the celebrations, NRAI unveiled its special 75-year commemorative logo, symbolising seven and a half decades of excellence, discipline, and achievement in Indian shooting.
Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports said, it is encouraging to see NRAI’s long-term vision through initiatives like grassroots outreach to 7.5 lakh youth. “These efforts will help identify talent, strengthen our sporting ecosystem,” the sports minister said.
NRAI secretary general Pawan Kumar Singh added, “the 75th anniversary celebrations are a landmark moment for Indian shooting, and this year-long programme reflects the scale of our ambition”.
EOM
