Telangana Hosts India’s First Sports Shooting Leadership Conclave, Charts Vision for Olympic Excellence

HYDERABAD FEB 26 (RNI) The Telangana Rifle Association (TRA) concluded the 1st Sports Shooting Leadership Conclave – 2026, marking a historic milestone as the first initiative of its kind in India. The prestigious conclave was held at the TRA Registered Office, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad.

The landmark event brought together eminent policymakers, senior IPS and civil service officers, sports administrators, and representatives from various government departments and sports bodies to deliberate on a comprehensive roadmap for the growth of shooting sports in Telangana and across India. Discussions centered on grassroots development, infrastructure enhancement, scientific training methodologies, and alignment with national and international standards.

The conclave was graced by distinguished dignitaries including  Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, President of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), Amit Sanghi, President, Telangana Rifle Association & Senior Vice President, NRAI,  Dr. M. Ramesh, I.P.S., Commissioner of Police, Cyberabad, Harichandana Dasari, District Collector, HyderabaD, A. P. Jithender Reddy, Former Member of Parliament & Advisor to the Government of Telangana on Sports Affairs; Ms. A. Sonibala Devi, I.F.S., Director & Managing Director, Sports Authority of Telangana; and several other eminent officials and guests.

In his keynote address, Amit Sanghi emphasized that shooting, though seemingly calm, is a high-pressure sport demanding exceptional discipline, focus, and mental strength. He stated that the objective of the conclave was to build a stronger, inclusive, and performance-driven shooting ecosystem in Telangana capable of consistently producing champions.

He highlighted the reduction of the Minimum Qualifying Score (MQS), approved by NRAI in May 2025 based on TRA’s recommendation, to widen opportunities for talented athletes, particularly from smaller towns and modest backgrounds. He stressed the importance of improving access to quality equipment so that talent is not limited by lack of resources.

Sanghi also spoke about the proposed Shooting Premier League to enhance visibility and sponsorship opportunities, regular NRAI-supported training camps, and the launch of TriggerPoint, a digital magazine aimed at promoting a culture of continuous learning. He further informed about the development of the TRA website and mobile application to ensure transparency and simplify processes for athletes.

Emphasizing infrastructure, he underlined the need to upgrade the Gachibowli shooting range to international standards. He also highlighted the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in training to provide data-driven performance insights, clarifying that AI would complement and support coaches and athletes.

He concluded by calling for collective efforts from TRA, NRAI, government authorities, coaches, parents, and athletes to position Telangana as one of India’s leading shooting states.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo congratulated TRA for organizing the conclave and encouraged similar initiatives across other states. He emphasized infrastructure upgradation, scientific coaching systems, and AI-driven performance analysis.

He informed that NRAI has initiated structured programs such as the Academy for Coaches & Judges and ISSF-certified jury training facilities, assuring full support to Telangana in its developmental initiatives.

A. P. Jithender Reddy appreciated the theme “Shaping the Future of Indian Shooting Sports” and stated that shooting should be treated as a priority sport rather than merely an extracurricular activity. Highlighting the Telangana Government’s enhanced sports budget, he expressed confidence that the state can produce at least 2–3 Olympians by 2032 through scientific methodology and technological integration.

Dr. M. Ramesh, I.P.S., encouraged athletes to practice regularly at authorized shooting ranges, emphasizing discipline and responsible participation. Mr. M. Ramana Kumar, I.P.S., motivated athletes to pursue excellence with dedication and consistency. Mr. Salalith Tottempudi stressed that TRA must actively support athletes in reaching Olympic standards and provide structured guidance to shape future Olympians.

Aman Sanghi, CEO of Synatech Solutions, highlighted the transformative role of AI technology in modern sports training. He explained how cost-effective AI tools can enhance performance analysis, improve precision training, and strengthen competitive outcomes for both TRA and NRAI.

The conclave concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Mr. Nawab Shafath Ali Khan, Governing Body Member, TRA.

The successful completion of the 1st Sports Shooting Leadership Conclave – 2026 marks a significant step toward positioning Telangana as a national leader in shooting sports and strengthening India’s global competitiveness in the discipline.