Indian Shooters Honored with National Sports Awards 2025
Celebrating Excellence in Indian Shooting
The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has extended its congratulations to Akhil Sheoran, Dhanush Srikanth, and Rudransh Khandelwal for receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award in various shooting disciplines. Additionally, Neha Nandkumar Chavan has been awarded the Dronacharya Award as part of the National Sports Awards 2025.
These accolades signify a moment of pride for the Indian shooting community, acknowledging the remarkable contributions of both athletes and coaches to the sport, as stated in an official release.
On August 18, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports unveiled the National Sports Awards, honoring exceptional performances and contributions to Indian sports. Akhil Sheoran was recognized with the Arjuna Award, while Dhanush Srikanth and Rudransh Khandelwal were acknowledged for their achievements in Deaf Shooting and Para-Shooting, respectively. Neha Nandkumar Chavan received the Dronacharya Award for her coaching excellence.
Akhil, a prominent figure in rifle shooting, has consistently excelled in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event. Currently a member of the NRAI's 2026 National Squad, he recently secured first place in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event during Selection Trial 3 earlier this year.
Neha Nandkumar Chavan's Dronacharya Award highlights her significant impact as a coach, aiding athletes in achieving success at the highest levels. This recognition underscores the vital role of coaches and the support systems that contribute to the success of Indian athletes.
Dhanush, ranked as the world No. 1 shooter in the deaf category, made history at the 25th Summer Deaflympics in Tokyo by winning India's first-ever shooting gold medal at the event. Competing in the 10m Air Rifle event, he set a new world record in the deaf category with a score of 252.2 in the final, surpassing his previous record of 251.7. His teammate, Mohammed Murtaza Vania, also excelled, earning a silver medal with a score of 250.1.
Rudransh Khandelwal, a rising star in para shooting, competes in pistol events within the SH1 classification. He has represented India at various international competitions, including the Asian Para Games and World Championships, and is set to compete in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. His impressive track record includes multiple medals at World Shooting Para Sport events, making his Arjuna Award recognition a significant milestone for Indian para shooting.
Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, President of the NRAI, expressed immense pride in the achievements of Akhil, Dhanush, Rudransh, and Neha. He emphasized that their journeys embody the determination and perseverance essential for sporting excellence. These awards celebrate not only their individual accomplishments but also the coaches and families that support them. He congratulated all four awardees and hopes their success inspires future athletes and coaches across the nation.
Pawankumar Singh, Secretary General of the NRAI, remarked that the National Sports Awards are among the highest honors in Indian sports. He expressed encouragement at the recognition of four members from the shooting community this year. Akhil, Dhanush, and Rudransh have showcased excellence in their fields, while Neha's award highlights the critical role of coaches in nurturing talent and fostering a robust sporting environment. This recognition is a proud moment for the NRAI and the entire shooting community, and he congratulated all four awardees on their well-deserved honors.