Kamaljeet's Gold Medal Triumph at Asian Games 2026 Celebrated by SAI
Historic Achievement for Indian Shooter
In Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, the Deputy Director of the Sports Authority of India (SAI) at the National Centre of Excellence (NCOE) Sigra, Shubhanshu Dwivedi, commended shooter Kamaljeet for clinching gold in the 10m air pistol mixed team event at the Asian Games 2026.
Dwivedi expressed that Kamaljeet's victory, occurring just four months after the SAI facility in Varanasi commenced operations, marks a significant milestone.
"This is indeed a historic occasion for us, as our centre has only recently opened. Kamaljeet joined our team in July, and achieving a gold medal in such a prestigious event like the Asian Games within just four months is remarkable," Dwivedi stated.
"It undoubtedly requires immense dedication from our centre, Kamaljeet, and numerous others involved. This moment brings us great joy, and the atmosphere here is filled with celebration," he added.
Kamaljeet, alongside Suruchi Inder Singh, secured India's second gold medal of the Games, finishing with a score of 484.6 points in the final. South Korea took home the silver with 478.0 points, while Iran earned bronze with 415.8 points.
The Indian duo also shattered the previous Asian record of 481.3, which was established by Uzbekistan earlier this year during the Asian Shooting Championships in New Delhi.
Dwivedi emphasized the comprehensive support system available to athletes at SAI centres, which includes sports science, nutrition, physiotherapy, psychology, and biomechanics.
"Currently, SAI provides training at various levels. Grassroots training is available through Khelo India Centres in every district. Above that, we have SAI Training Centres, including four in Uttar Pradesh, which offer intermediate-level training. At the pinnacle is the National Centre of Excellence, where elite-level training is provided. For instance, you are currently at the SAI NCOE in Varanasi. We strive to offer world-class training facilities at all these centres, ensuring athletes receive full support for sports science along with their sport-specific training," he explained.
"We aim to provide top-notch boarding, lodging, and nutrition for our athletes. Specifically for shooters, we have physiotherapists to assist with overuse injuries. Additionally, psychologists help maintain their focus and commitment through regular assessments. We also employ biomechanics and physiologists to enhance their physical balance and technical skills," he continued.
Dwivedi noted that Kamaljeet's success would serve as an inspiration for other athletes training at the centre.
"This is a significant celebration for us. Once Kamaljeet returns from Japan, we plan to host a grand welcome ceremony for him. The exciting part is that many of our athletes—138 so far—have joined us. This serves as a tremendous motivational factor for them to be around someone who has brought home gold from the Asian Games. I believe this will elevate the overall determination and motivation across the centre," Dwivedi concluded.
Suruchi and Kamaljeet maintained their lead from the initial series, scoring 103 points before extending their advantage throughout the final. They ultimately finished 6.6 points ahead of South Korea.
Their winning score was also just four points shy of the world record.
As of the latest update, India's medal tally stood at 19, including two gold, eight silver, and nine bronze medals.