The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has announced a strong 36-member junior squad for the upcoming ISSF Junior World Cup, set to take place in Suhl, Germany, from May 19 to 27. Among the standout athletes, Paris Olympian Raiza Dhillon will bring her experience to the team, joining a 12-member shotgun squad that will aim for gold on the world stage.
Aiming for Excellence: India’s Junior Squad Overview
The selected squad will compete in 15 events, including three mixed team events, showcasing India’s strength across various shooting disciplines. The team includes top performers from past international competitions, ensuring India remains a dominant force in junior shooting.
Raiza Dhillon’s Role in the Squad
Raiza Dhillon, a promising talent in Indian shooting, has already made waves with her performances on the international stage. Her participation in the Paris Olympics has provided her with valuable experience, making her a key asset to the junior squad. Competing in shotgun events, Dhillon will look to lead by example and contribute to India’s medal tally in Suhl.
Star Performers Returning to the World Stage
Two exceptional shooters from the Junior World Championships in Peru will also return to the international arena. Mukesh Nelavali, who stunned the world with five gold and two bronze medals in Peru, will look to continue his dominance. Divanshi, another rising star, clinched a double gold, including victory in the women’s 25m pistol individual event. Both shooters will enter the competition with confidence, aiming to replicate their success and strengthen India’s standing in junior shooting.
India’s Dominance in Junior Shooting
India showcased unparalleled dominance in the 2023 Junior World Championships in Peru, finishing at the top with 13 gold medals. The selected 36-member squad will aim to build on that momentum and continue India’s success in the junior circuit.
NRAI President Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo emphasized the importance of this competition, stating, “We have a home junior world cup coming up in September, and the juniors will be looking to impress with an eye on that as well.” This highlights the strategic approach Indian shooters are taking, using the Suhl event as a stepping stone toward further success later in the year.
Events and Medal Prospects
India’s shooters will compete across multiple disciplines, increasing their chances of securing podium finishes. The squad includes specialists in rifle, pistol, and shotgun events, covering all major categories in the competition.
The three mixed team events provide additional medal opportunities, as Indian shooters have consistently performed well in these categories. Pairing experienced shooters with emerging talents has proven to be a successful formula, and the team will look to leverage that strategy in Suhl.
Preparation and Training Regimen
The squad has undergone rigorous training under the guidance of top coaches and support staff. NRAI has ensured that athletes receive the best facilities, coaching, and international exposure to compete at the highest level. Shooters have been participating in simulation drills, mental conditioning sessions, and high-intensity practice rounds to fine-tune their skills.
Training camps have focused on improving accuracy, stability, and handling pressure in high-stakes competitions. The team has also worked on optimizing their reaction time and adapting to different competition settings, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges in Germany.
Key Shooters to Watch in Suhl
Mukesh Nelavali
- Seven-time medalist at the Junior World Championships in Peru
- Strong in rifle events, particularly excelling in precision shooting
- Expected to be a top contender for multiple gold medals
Divanshi
- Winner of double gold in Peru
- Specialist in 25m pistol individual and team events
- Capable of delivering high scores under pressure
Raiza Dhillon
- Olympian shooter with international experience
- Leader in the shotgun squad, bringing confidence and skill
- Aiming for podium finishes in both individual and team events
Other Notable Athletes
Several rising stars in the squad have shown promise in national and international competitions. Their performances in Suhl will be crucial in establishing India’s continued dominance on the junior circuit.
The Road Ahead: Building Toward the Home Junior World Cup
The ISSF Junior World Cup in Suhl serves as a crucial milestone for Indian shooters. With the Home Junior World Cup scheduled for September, the competition in Germany offers the perfect opportunity for athletes to test their skills, gain experience, and fine-tune their performances. Success in Suhl will boost their confidence and set the stage for further glory on home soil.
India’s Shooting Legacy and Future Prospects
Indian shooting has consistently produced world-class athletes, with juniors making significant contributions to the sport’s growth. With a structured training program, strong infrastructure, and continued investment in young talent, India remains a powerhouse in international shooting.
The Suhl event will provide Indian shooters with an opportunity to make their mark on the global stage, reinforcing the country’s reputation in the sport. As the junior squad heads to Germany, expectations remain high, and the entire nation will watch closely as they strive for excellence.
Conclusion
The announcement of the 36-member Indian junior squad for the ISSF Junior World Cup 2024 in Suhl marks another significant step in India’s shooting journey. Led by talented athletes like Raiza Dhillon, Mukesh Nelavali, and Divanshi, the team will aim to continue India’s dominance in junior shooting. With rigorous training, strategic preparation, and a legacy of excellence, the young shooters are well-equipped to bring home medals and set new benchmarks in the sport.As India looks ahead to future competitions, including the Home Junior World Cup in September, the performances in Suhl will serve as an important indicator of the country’s standing in the global junior circuit. The squad has the talent, determination, and support system to achieve greatness, and all eyes will be on them as they represent India on the world stage.
