Dec 23: Indian Navy shooter Kiran Ankush Jadhav delivered an outstanding performance to clinch the gold medal in the men’s 10m air rifle final at the 68th National Shooting Championship (NSC) held in Bhopal, marking a significant achievement in his shooting career. In a closely contested final, Jadhav edged past Olympian Arjun Babuta, showcasing composure, precision and competitive grit at the highest level of domestic shooting.
The final witnessed intense competition among India’s top rifle shooters, with fine margins separating the medal winners. Jadhav’s calm handling of pressure in the decisive stages proved crucial as he outperformed seasoned competitors to secure the top podium finish. His victory against an Olympian further underlined the depth of talent emerging within Indian shooting and the growing competitiveness of national-level championships.
Representing the Indian Navy, Jadhav’s triumph highlights the strong sporting culture and structured training ecosystem within the armed forces. Over the years, the Services Sports Control Board has played a pivotal role in nurturing elite athletes across disciplines, particularly shooting, by providing world-class facilities, coaching support and exposure to high-level competitions.
The 68th National Shooting Championship has brought together the country’s finest shooters, serving as an important platform for talent identification and preparation for international events. Performances at this championship are closely watched by selectors, as they often shape national squads for upcoming global competitions, including World Cups and continental championships.
Jadhav’s gold medal win is also a testament to his consistency and discipline, qualities essential for success in precision sports like shooting. Competing in the 10m air rifle event demands exceptional focus, technical accuracy and mental resilience, especially when facing opponents with international experience. His ability to maintain steady scores under pressure impressed officials, coaches and fellow athletes alike.
Olympian Arjun Babuta, who finished close behind, added further prestige to the event, making the final a high-quality contest that reflected the rising standards of Indian shooting. Such close battles at the national level are seen as a positive sign for India’s future prospects on the global shooting stage.
Officials associated with the championship praised the overall organisation and competitive environment, noting that the event continues to raise the benchmark for domestic shooting competitions. The championship not only provides athletes with match exposure but also helps in building mental toughness required for international success.
Jadhav’s achievement has been widely lauded within sporting circles, with many viewing it as an inspiration for young shooters aspiring to represent India. His journey reinforces the message that dedication, structured training and institutional support can help athletes reach the pinnacle of their sport.
As the National Shooting Championship progresses with more events and finals, performances like Jadhav’s gold-medal finish reaffirm India’s strong foundation in shooting sports. With a growing pool of talented athletes and robust support systems, Indian shooting continues to move forward with confidence and ambition.
The gold medal at the 68th National Shooting Championship not only adds a prestigious title to Kiran Ankush Jadhav’s career but also strengthens the Indian Navy’s proud legacy in sports, reflecting excellence, discipline and competitive spirit on the national stage.
