In a significant development for Indian shooting sports, Olympic bronze medalist Gagan Narang has withdrawn his candidacy for the president's position at the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI). The seasoned shooter-turned-administrator announced his decision while extending full support to the incumbent president, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo.
Unexpected Withdrawal Before Crucial Elections
The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) vice president had previously filed his nomination for the NRAI chief's post for the December 4 elections scheduled to take place in Mohali. This sudden withdrawal comes as a surprise to many in the sporting community who had anticipated a contested election for the top position in India's premier shooting body.
The elections for the National Rifle Association of India are set for December 4 in Mohali, and Narang's decision effectively clears the path for Kalikesh Singh Deo to continue leading the organization. This development marks a significant moment in the administration of shooting sports in India, with two prominent figures joining forces rather than competing against each other.
Shared Vision for Indian Shooting Sports
Explaining his decision, Gagan Narang revealed that a meeting with Kalikesh Singh Deo played a crucial role in his change of heart. "I met Kalikesh, who shared his vision for the growth of the shooting sport," Narang told Times of India. The London Olympics bronze medalist emphasized that both leaders share a common objective of elevating Indian shooting to new heights on the global stage.
The former champion shooter expressed confidence in Deo's leadership, stating, "We both share a common goal — to take the sport to new heights — and I believe he and his team will hold the shooting flag high." This endorsement from one of India's most accomplished shooters carries significant weight within the sporting community.
Implications for Indian Shooting
This political development within the NRAI comes at a crucial time for Indian shooting sports. The discipline has been producing world-class talent consistently, and stable leadership is essential for maintaining this momentum. With Narang's support, Deo is now positioned to continue his work without electoral challenges, potentially ensuring continuity in policies and programs.
The collaboration between an experienced administrator like Kalikesh Singh Deo and a respected athlete like Gagan Narang could create a powerful combination for advancing shooting sports in India. Narang's firsthand experience as an elite competitor brings valuable perspective to the administrative side of the sport, while Deo's established leadership provides organizational stability.
This unified front is expected to focus on developing grassroots programs, identifying new talent, and preparing Indian shooters for upcoming international competitions, including the Paris Olympics. The shooting community will be watching closely to see how this political alignment translates into tangible benefits for athletes and the sport's development across the country.
