New Delhi: The Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports, Kiren Rijiju visited Sports Authority of India’s National Centre of Excellence Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range (KSSR) and interacted with shooters on Wednesday.
During his visit, the Sports Minister announced that shooters of all categories — elite, developmental and Khelo India — will be given ammunition and targets from KSSR and other accredited academics. This would help the players to continue to train at their home range.
“It is important that athletes, especially 2024 and 2028 Olympic probables get a chance to continue their training wherever they are in the country. They may not be able to visit KSSR or other academies owing to the COVID 19 situation,” the minister said.
“However, many of them practice in their home range as well as in facilities near their homes. We want to ensure that their training is in no way compromised because of lack of availability of ammunition. Athletes can collect whatever they need from KSSR and other accredited academies and continue their sporting activities,” he added further.
The decision will impact a total of 253 shooters across elite, developmental and Khelo India athletes, who can now train at a sporting facility convenient to them, without having to come to KSSR.
“It felt great that Minister Sir came to meet us and enquire about our needs. If we can get the ammunition and practice at a range which is closer to our homes it will not just ensure our safety during COVID times but also allow us to devote more time to training. I am sure elite shooters who do not live in Delhi will benefit hugely from this decision. This will ensure that we can continue our Olympic training,” said shooter Anish Bhanwala, who interacted with the Sports Minister during his visit.
