Niraj Kumar Shines at National Shooting Championships, Eyes Olympic Glory
Niraj Kumar's Impressive Performance
New Delhi, January 2: Indian shooter Niraj Kumar, a World Cup gold medalist, showcased his talent at the 68th National Shooting Championships held in Bhopal, where he clinched a silver medal in the Men's 50m 3P category.
Kumar took a moment to reflect on his journey in the sport and discussed the impact of the newly established Shooting League of India (SLI) on the future of shooting.
Hailing from a small border town in Punjab's Hoshiarpur district, Kumar's rise to the national stage exemplifies the determination needed in elite sports. His journey began in 2014 with the National Cadet Corps (NCC), where he faced numerous financial challenges and spent years persuading his parents to support his shooting ambitions. His selection for the Indian Navy marked a pivotal moment, earning his family's backing, as noted in a press release from SLI.
With the SLI's introduction, Kumar is optimistic that upcoming athletes will encounter fewer barriers. He believes the league will instill confidence in parents, encouraging them to view shooting as a legitimate and secure career option for their children. The inaugural season is set to commence this February.
“Families often support a child's sporting aspirations only after witnessing success stories in that field. The Shooting League of India will help create those success stories for the public. Viewers will appreciate the format and recognize the opportunities this sport can provide,” Kumar stated.
He also emphasized the league's potential to broaden the audience for shooting, noting, “Typically, our audience consists of those familiar with shooting. However, with the league's broadcasts, a larger audience will have the chance to learn about and appreciate the sport.”
A key highlight for Kumar is the league's ability to connect domestic shooters with international stars. He expressed enthusiasm about the possibility of training and competing alongside renowned figures, specifically mentioning Hungarian World Champion Istvan Peni and Indian teammate Kiran Jadhav.
“I am thrilled at the prospect of shooting alongside Istvan Peni and Kiran Jadhav. It would be fantastic if we could team up,” Kumar shared.
Reflecting on his recent success at the national level, Kumar praised the facilities available at national training centers. “I didn’t adhere to a strict regimen for the championships, but the infrastructure at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range, where I train, is outstanding. We have hostel accommodations, three meals daily, and access to ammunition for training, which is a significant advantage,” he explained.
Despite the fierce competition among Indian shooters, Kumar highlighted the camaraderie among athletes, stating that they maintain a clear boundary between professional rivalries and personal friendships by concentrating on their own performances.
“As shooting is an individual sport, we focus on our targets and our own progress, which fosters a positive environment. We interact, socialize, and everything is harmonious. There’s no negativity at the range,” he remarked.
As he gears up for the 2026 season, Kumar remains committed to his ultimate goal of winning an Olympic medal. He perceives the Shooting League of India not just as a competition, but as a vital ecosystem that will enhance athlete performance and build public support for the sport.