NRAI Celebrates 75 Years of Shooting Excellence with Year-Long Events

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has kicked off its 75th anniversary celebrations at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range. With a focus on introducing new talent to shooting sports, the NRAI plans a year-long series of events, including honoring past champions and hosting an exhibition match during the ISSF World Cup. This initiative aims to build on India's successful Olympic history in shooting, which has seen significant achievements in recent years. Discover more about the NRAI's ambitious plans and its legacy in promoting shooting sports in India.

By Narendra Chaudhary Apr 17, 2026, 18:01 IST

NRAI Marks 75th Anniversary

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), which oversees the Olympic shooting sport in the nation, has launched significant plans to commemorate its 75th anniversary. The festivities commenced at the prestigious Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range (DKSSR) Finals Hall, featuring a ceremonial cake-cutting attended by notable figures including Pawankumar Singh, Secretary General of NRAI, Rajiv Bhatia, Secretary of NRAI, Khel Ratna Awardee Jitu Rai, Arjuna Awardee and Chief Shotgun Coach Mansher Singh, and double Olympic medalist Manu Bhaker, along with other shooters, coaches, and support staff from the national shooting team and the National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) for shooting sports.

Reflections on NRAI's Legacy

During the event, Pawankumar Singh reflected on the NRAI's establishment in 1951, highlighting its first President, GV Mavalankar, a distinguished Freedom Fighter and Parliamentarian. He expressed pride in the association's historical ties to several Freedom Fighters, including former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri and other prominent leaders who were foundational to the organization. Singh emphasized the current success of shooting in securing medals for India, stating that it is a privilege to continue the legacy of these historical figures.

Plans for Year-Long Celebrations

Singh elaborated on the upcoming year-long celebrations, stating, "We aim to introduce 7.5 lakh new school students to shooting. This initiative will involve visiting schools or inviting students to local ranges for a 10-shot experience. We will collaborate with the Government, the Ministry of Sports, shooting academies, and local clubs to achieve this goal, which will help discover new talent. Additionally, we plan to honor all Arjuna, Khel Ratna, Dronacharya awardees, and Olympic medalists during the National Championships, as well as recognize State Awardees at the State Championships. Furthermore, we will host an exhibition match featuring past and present Olympic medalists during the ISSF World Cup Olympic quota event in Delhi next year."

India's Achievements in Olympic Shooting

Shooting has emerged as one of India's most successful Olympic sports, with a medal tally that includes one gold, two silvers, and four bronzes. Notably, Abhinav Bindra secured India's first individual Olympic gold at the Beijing 2008 Olympics in the men's 10m air rifle event. In the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics, shooting is expected to contribute significantly, as evidenced by Manu Bhaker's two bronze medals in the last event.