Madhya Pradesh Aims for Olympic Glory with Shooting Support Initiatives

Madhya Pradesh is making significant strides in promoting shooting sports, with Sports Minister Vishvas Sarang pledging support for the National Rifle Association of India’s talent hunt initiative. The state aims to introduce 750,000 students to shooting as part of its preparations for the 2036 Olympics, which India is bidding to host. The 24th Kumar Surendra Singh Memorial Shooting competition is set to showcase talent across the country, with events taking place in Bhopal and New Delhi. This initiative is expected to inspire local athletes and elevate the standard of shooting in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 2, 2026, 22:55 IST

Madhya Pradesh's Commitment to Shooting Sports

Vishvas Sarang, the Sports Minister of Madhya Pradesh, has expressed unwavering support for the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) and its talent hunt program, as well as the Shooting League of India (SLI). This initiative, launched in celebration of NRAI's 75th Anniversary, aims to engage 750,000 students from schools and colleges in the sport of shooting, as stated in a recent press release.

Vision for the 2036 Olympics

During the inauguration of the 24th Kumar Surendra Singh Memorial (KSSM) Shooting competition at the MP Shooting Academy in Bhopal, Sarang emphasized Madhya Pradesh's goal of producing the highest number of medalists in shooting for the 2036 Olympics, which India is vying to host. He also expressed a keen interest in having the state host the Shooting League of India, which he believes would elevate the standard of competition and inspire local talent.

NRAI's Acknowledgment of State Support

Pawankumar Singh, Secretary General of the NRAI, welcomed the attendees and highlighted the significance of the competition as a platform for emerging shooting talent in India. He paid tribute to the late Kumar Surendra Singh, a former NRAI President, whose contributions to the sport are deeply valued. Singh thanked the Sports Minister for his leadership, noting that initiatives like the Summer Camp Aroh-2026 and Khelo M.P. Youth Games will significantly aid the NRAI's mission to introduce 750,000 youth to shooting.

Details of the 24th KSSM Competition

The 24th KSSM competition will take place concurrently in Bhopal and at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi. Bhopal will host the rifle events, while the pistol competitions will occur in Delhi. A total of 3,800 shooting athletes from 37 units across the nation are expected to participate, promising an exciting showcase of talent in both rifle and pistol disciplines.