Innovative Technology to Boost Audience Engagement in Shooting League of India
Transforming Shooting into an Engaging Sport
New Delhi, July 31: Ronak Pandit, the High-Performance Manager for the Indian Shooting team, is optimistic about the potential of the Shooting League of India (SLI) to attract a larger audience through the use of technology.
During a recent national camp in Dehradun, the former shooter and pistol coach emphasized that incorporating technology and animation could significantly enhance the presentation of the sport, making it more appealing.
“Shooting is often perceived as a technical and dull sport. We must inject some fun into it and utilize animation. By leveraging technology, we can convey the intricacies of the sport in an engaging manner,” Pandit stated.
He further explained, “It’s crucial to educate the public about the sport without overwhelming them with technical jargon. Animation can bridge the gap for those unfamiliar with shooting, making it easier for them to grasp the concepts.”
The Shooting League of India, which is the first professional franchise-based shooting competition in the country, received approval from the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) earlier this year and has garnered backing from the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF). Pandit believes that to attract investors and ensure the league's longevity, it must engage a broad audience.
“To sustain the league, we need to make it appealing to investors. Success hinges on attracting viewers and creating an immersive experience. We must explore ways to make shooting enjoyable and accessible to everyone,” he remarked.
The inaugural tournament will feature mixed team events across various categories, including pistol (10m, 25m), rifle (10m, 50m 3 positions), and shotgun (Trap & Skeet). Shooters will be categorized into four tiers: Elite Champions, World Elite, National Champions, and Junior & Youth Champions, ensuring a mix of seasoned professionals and emerging talent.
Pandit also shared insights into the audience's perspective, stressing the importance of the league as a source of 'meaningful entertainment.'
“While shooting may not traditionally be a spectator sport, it garners attention during the Olympics, primarily due to the emotional connection with the Indian team’s medal wins. However, the league must evolve beyond this notion,” he explained.
“Just as moviegoers flock to see Tom Cruise in 'Top Gun Maverick' for entertainment, we need to present the league in a similarly captivating way. By employing technology, we can build excitement with every shot. For instance, when a shooter prepares to fire, we can showcase their mindset and provide statistics that highlight the likelihood of success with each shot. This approach will help engage the audience effectively,” he concluded.
The first edition of the Shooting League of India is scheduled to take place at the Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi, with a window allocated by the ISSF from November 20 to December 2, 2025.