Shooting Competition
National Shooting C’ship: Navy’s Kiran Ankush Jadhav claims 10m air rifle gold
National Shooting C’ship: Navy’s Kiran Ankush Jadhav claims 10m air rifle gold
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Bhopal, India
Bhopal, India — In a thrilling display of precision and mental fortitude, Navy shooter Kiran Ankush Jadhav clinched the gold medal in the 10m Air Rifle Men final at the 68th National Shooting Championship, held at the MP State Shooting Academy on December 22, 2025. Jadhav's score of 252.1 edged out Olympian Arjun Babuta, who took silver with 251.4, showcasing a fierce competition that highlights the depth of talent in the current Indian shooting landscape.
The championship, which is a prominent fixture in the Indian shooting calendar, gathered some of the best marksmen from across the nation, emphasizing both the competitive spirit and the dedication of the participants. In the final moments of the event, Jadhav maintained composure under pressure, a trait that distinguishes elite shooters from their peers. Arjun Babuta, despite the narrow loss, demonstrated his skill, finishing closely behind Jadhav, while reigning 50m Rifle 3 Positions national champion Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar completed the podium with a score of 229.8.
The tournament doesn't just spotlight seasoned pros; it serves as a platform for the next generation of shooters as well. In the 10m Air Rifle Men Junior final, Mohammed Murtaza Vania from Gujarat displayed remarkable control and determination, securing gold with a score of 254.3. West Bengal's Abhinav Shaw followed closely, earning silver with 251.6, while Onkar Vikas Waghamare secured bronze with 230.1. This trio of junior marksmen not only reflects the emerging talent in Indian shooting but also showcases the rigorous training involved at early stages.
The event further emphasized its inclusivity with youth competitions, where Onkar Vikas Waghamare, a standout name from the junior category, successfully claimed gold in the 10m Air Rifle Men Youth final. His performance was bolstered by a strong finishing series, allowing him to dominate with a score of 250, narrowly defeating teammate Naraen Pranav who took silver. The competitive atmosphere is integral for youth shooters, fostering growth and discipline, necessary traits in the world of competitive shooting.
Ceremonies on this day were made more distinguished with the presence of notable dignitaries such as Pawankumar Singh, Secretary General of the NRAI, and Sureshwar Singh, who is not only an MLA but also the President of Swami Vivekanand Degree College in Bahraich. This illustrates the importance of institutional support in developing shooting sports in India.
As the event progresses, the Madhya Pradesh State Shooting Academy prepares for more exciting competitions, with a 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team event slated for December 23. The buzz around this event serves a dual purpose: it excites spectators and competitors alike, while also enabling a culture of excellence in shooting sports across the nation.
In summary, this championship has reaffirmed India's status as a powerhouse in shooting sports. The strong performances by both veterans and emerging talents mark a positive trend in national sports, indicating that meticulous training and dedication are bearing fruit. As this event unfolds, it will be important to see how these young athletes transition into the higher echelons of international competitions, a pathway that Indian shooters have increasingly tread in recent years.
The results from the 68th National Shooting Championship reflect not only individual achievements but also the ongoing commitment of India's shooting fraternity to excellence. As competitive shooting gains momentum in India, the focus will need to be on nurturing and developing this talent pipeline to ensure sustained success on the international stage. The depth of talent showcased this year suggests a bright future, yet challenges remain in terms of mental resilience and strategic preparation as these athletes vie for global prominence. What remains clear is that the spirit of competition continues to thrive, paving the way for a new era in Indian shooting.