New Delhi, Oct 23 – The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) announced the launch of the country’s first-ever franchise-based shooting league, titled the “Shooting League of India,” set to debut in March. The initiative, proposed by NRAI president Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, has been approved by the federation’s governing body, with a final timeline pending approval from the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF).
Deo highlighted the surge in shooting’s popularity, especially after Indian shooters’ stellar performance at the Paris Olympics, where they secured three medals in a single sport for the first time. He emphasized the league’s potential to further boost the sport’s popularity, attract new audiences, and provide financial sustainability for the athletes.
“Shooting, especially in its Olympic format, isn’t traditionally seen as TV-friendly. However, after careful deliberation, we believe we’ve found a winning formula that could work,” said Deo. He expressed optimism that the league would not only bring more attention to the sport but also support the athletes who have consistently brought global recognition to India.
The NRAI aims to follow the model of other successful franchise-based leagues that have elevated the visibility and revenue of their respective sports.
