New Delhi, 20 August (H.S.):

The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) on Thursday congratulated Arjun Award recipients Akhil Sheoran, Dhanush Srikanth and Rudransh Khandelwal, along with Dronacharya Award recipient Neha Nandakumar Chavan, describing their recognition at the National Sports Awards as a proud moment for Indian shooting.

The NRAI said the honours recognise the outstanding contributions of athletes and coaches and represent an important achievement for the country's shooting community.

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports announced the National Sports Awards 2025 on August 18. Akhil Sheoran was selected for the Arjuna Award, while Dhanush Srikanth and Rudransh Khandelwal were recognised for their achievements in deaf shooting and para-shooting, respectively. Neha Nandakumar Chavan was selected for the Dronacharya Award.

Akhil's strong record in 50m rifle three positions

One of India's leading rifle shooters, Akhil Sheoran has been a member of the national team in the 50m rifle three positions event for several years. He is currently part of the NRAI's 2026 national squad and has continued to produce strong performances at the national level.

Earlier this year, Sheoran finished first in the 50m rifle three positions event at Selection Trial 3, further strengthening his credentials as one of India's leading competitors in the discipline.

Neha Chavan recognised for coaching contribution

The Dronacharya Award presented to Neha Nandakumar Chavan recognises her contribution as a shooting coach and her role in preparing athletes to compete and perform at the highest level.

The NRAI said her recognition marks another significant achievement for Indian shooting and highlights the crucial role played by coaches and the wider support system in helping athletes succeed.

Dhanush creates history in Tokyo

Dhanush Srikanth, ranked among the world's leading deaf shooters, created history at the 25th Summer Deaflympics held in Tokyo last year by winning India's first shooting gold medal at the Games.

Competing in the 10m air rifle event, Dhanush scored 252.2 points in the final to set a world record in the deaf shooting category, surpassing his previous record of 251.7 points. He had also set a new Deaflympics record during qualification to secure his place in the final.

His gold medal was accompanied by a silver from fellow Indian shooter Mohammed Murtaza Vania, who scored 250.1 points.

Rudransh makes mark in para-shooting

Rudransh Khandelwal is among India's emerging para shooters and competes in pistol events in the SH1 category. He has represented India at the Asian Para Games, World Shooting Para Sport World Cups, World Championships and the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games.

His international record includes several medals at World Shooting Para Sport competitions, including gold medals. His selection for the Arjuna Award is therefore a significant recognition for Indian para-shooting.

NRAI President Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo said in an official statement, “It is a matter of immense pride for the entire shooting fraternity that Akhil Sheoran, Dhanush Srikanth, Rudransh Khandelwal and Neha Nandakumar Chavan have received these prestigious honours. Their journeys represent the determination, discipline and sustained effort that form the foundation of sporting excellence.”

He added that the awards were not only a celebration of their individual achievements but also recognition of the coaches, families and support systems that had stood firmly behind them throughout their careers.

NRAI Secretary General Pawan Kumar Singh said, “The National Sports Awards are among the highest honours conferred in Indian sport, and it is extremely encouraging that four members of the shooting fraternity have been recognised this year.”

He said Akhil, Dhanush and Rudransh had demonstrated excellence in their respective disciplines, while Neha's recognition highlighted the important role of coaches in developing athletes and strengthening the sporting ecosystem.

“These honours are a proud moment for the NRAI and the entire shooting community. We congratulate all four award winners on this well-deserved achievement,” he added.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar