Indian Shooters and Coach Honored at National Sports Awards 2025
Celebrating Excellence in Shooting
The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has expressed 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, recognizing her exceptional coaching contributions. These accolades were announced as part of the National Sports Awards 2025, marking a significant achievement for the Indian shooting community.
The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports revealed the National Sports Awards on August 18, honoring remarkable performances and contributions to Indian sports. Akhil Sheoran was honored with the Arjuna Award, while Dhanush Srikanth and Rudransh Khandelwal were recognized for their accomplishments in Deaf Shooting and Para-Shooting, respectively. Neha Nandkumar Chavan received the Dronacharya Award for her coaching excellence.
Profiles of the Awardees
Akhil Sheoran stands out as one of India's top rifle shooters, consistently competing in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event. He is currently a member of the NRAI's 2026 National Squad and has achieved notable success, including a first-place finish in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event during Selection Trial 3 earlier this year.
Neha Nandkumar Chavan's Dronacharya Award highlights her significant role as a coach in the shooting discipline, emphasizing the vital support that coaches provide to athletes striving for excellence at competitive levels.
Dhanush Srikanth, ranked as the world No. 1 shooter in the deaf category, made history at the 25th Summer Deaflympics held in Tokyo last winter by securing India's first-ever shooting gold medal at the Games. 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, winning a silver medal with a score of 250.1.
Rudransh Khandelwal is recognized as one of India's most promising para shooters, competing in pistol events within the SH1 classification. He has represented India at various international competitions, including the Asian Para Games and World Shooting Para Sport events, earning multiple medals and establishing himself as a significant figure in para shooting.
NRAI Leadership's Commendation
Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, President of the NRAI, remarked, "It is a tremendous honor for the entire shooting community to witness Akhil Sheoran, Dhanush Srikanth, Rudransh Khandelwal, and Neha Nandkumar Chavan receiving this recognition. Their journeys embody the determination, discipline, and perseverance essential for sporting excellence. These awards celebrate not only their individual successes but also the coaches, families, and support systems that have been integral to their achievements. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all four awardees and hope their success inspires many more athletes and coaches across the nation."
Pawankumar Singh, Secretary General of the NRAI, added, "The National Sports Awards represent one of the highest honors in Indian sports, and it is incredibly uplifting to see four members of the shooting community recognized this year. Akhil, Dhanush, and Rudransh have showcased excellence in their respective fields, while Neha's recognition underscores the critical role coaches play in nurturing athletes and fostering a robust sporting environment. These accolades are a proud moment for the NRAI and the entire shooting community, and we congratulate all four awardees on this well-deserved recognition."