Triggering global triumph: India’s growing impact on shooting sports

Shooting sports, a discipline that combines skill, focus, and precision, has recently become one of India’s most promising domains. Athletes like Manu Bhaker, Saurabh Chaudhary, and Abhinav Bindra are showcasing India’s rising strength in this field with landmark achievements on global platforms. The success at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where India secured three medals in shooting, marks a monumental leap. With the world’s top shooters, including China, the USA, and Russia dominating global competitions, India's surge in shooting sports is cementing the country’s future as a dominant force.
Exploring the depths of competitive marksmanship
Shooting encompasses various events such as rifle, pistol, and shotgun, all of which demand incredible physical and mental agility. The sport is characterized by its precision and the ability of athletes to focus under immense pressure. Technological innovations, from electronic scoring systems to simulation-based training tools, are rapidly transforming the landscape. As shooting sports grow more inclusive, mixed-gender events are also gaining prominence.
Globally, countries like China, the USA, Germany, Italy, and Russia dominate the sport, supported by extensive infrastructure and scientific training approaches. Shooters from nations such as the Czech Republic, South Korea, and Japan have also made significant contributions, elevating the sport's competitive spirit. For instance, the Czech Republic’s legacy includes some of the finest shooters in shotgun events, who consistently rank among the best at international competitions.
Notable Olympic champions like Matthew Emmons, Kim Rhode, and Niccolò Campriani have left an indelible mark on the sport. Their achievements continue to inspire upcoming athletes, proving that precision, preparation, and perseverance are at the core of shooting success.
India’s growing presence
India's journey in shooting has been remarkable, marked by numerous international accolades and a growing reputation in the global arena. With consistent efforts from the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), the country has nurtured exceptional talent and provided platforms for young shooters to excel.
India’s rising influence in shooting was further confirmed at the ISSF World Cup, held just before the FISU World University Shooting Championship, where Indian shooters bagged several medals and reinforced the country’s position among the world’s leading shooting nations. Manav Rachna Educational Institutions took a significant step in showcasing India’s potential by hosting the FISU World University Shooting Championship for the first time in the country. Organised under the umbrella of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) at Manav Rachna, the event saw participation from 23 countries, with India emerging as the overall champion. The event highlighted India’s ability to host large-scale international competitions with finesse and professionalism, demonstrating the country's growing prominence on the world stage.
Manav Rachna: A beacon of excellence

Manav Rachna Educational Institutions (MREI) has emerged as a beacon of excellence in sports education. With world-class facilities, including 10m, 25m, and 50m electronic ranges and India’s only university-based shotgun range, the institution has become a hub for nurturing shooting talent.
Manav Rachna’s strategic partnerships with global icons like Daniele Di Spigno and Peter Gorsa have enriched the training landscape. Regular camps, both in India and abroad, expose athletes to international competition and develop their mental resilience. The institution also integrates sports science into training, leveraging the expertise of its Sports Science Centre to maximise athlete potential.
Indian shooters from Manav Rachna, including Kirti Gupta, Bakhtyaruddin Malek, and Manini Kaushik, made stellar contributions to India’s medal tally at the FISU World University Championship Shooting, The role of Manav Rachna in producing Olympians is also noteworthy, with several alumni representing India on the grandest stages of international shooting under the guidance of Ronjan Sodhi, former World No. 1 and world record holder in double trap shooting.
Manav Rachna’s ongoing collaboration with the NRAI and other international bodies has further strengthened its position in the shooting ecosystem. This partnership, combined with the institution’s focus on integrating sports science and expert coaching, provides its athletes with the resources needed to excel internationally.
Unveiling the unique aspects
The sport is a test of mental resilience and precision. Athletes are often preselected for specific disciplines based on their personality and stress-coping abilities. This scientific approach ensures a higher success rate, making the sport a fascinating blend of art and science.
Few people know that professional shooters spend years perfecting techniques like controlled breathing, steady posture, and mental visualisation. The customisation of equipment, from rifle stocks to shooting jackets, ensures precision and comfort tailored to each athlete’s unique needs.
Additionally, the sport’s focus on mental resilience is unparalleled. Many top shooters use biofeedback techniques and psychological training to maintain composure under pressure. These aspects highlight shooting’s status as a sport of both science and art.
Around the world, grassroots initiatives are driving participation. For instance, countries like Sweden and Norway promote shooting through community programs, while Japan focuses on school-level competitions to identify talent early. Such efforts underline the universal appeal of shooting and its potential to inspire individuals across diverse backgrounds.
The way forward
India’s growing reputation in shooting sports is the result of collaborative efforts by athletes, institutions, and governing bodies. The successful hosting of a major international shooting championship marked a turning point, proving that India is ready to take on the mantle of organizing more such global events. It also provided a platform for fostering cultural exchange among the participating nations, strengthening India’s ties with the international shooting community.
With continued investments in training, infrastructure, and mental conditioning, Indian shooting is poised to reach even greater heights. The National Rifle Association of India and Sports Authority of India remain committed to bringing the best international expertise to India. Institutions like Manav Rachna are playing a pivotal role in shaping this journey, empowering athletes to compete and excel on the world stage. As the nation continues to nurture talent and expand its presence, Indian shooting is poised to become a force to be reckoned with in the years to come.
Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Manav Rachna University by Times Internet’s Spotlight team.