In what could mark a transformative moment for Indian shooting, industrialist and Member of Parliament Naveen Jindal has entered the fray for the presidency of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI). A respected figure with a rare blend of sporting excellence, administrative acumen, and public service, Jindal’s candidature is being seen by many as the right move at the right time.
A former skeet shooter, Jindal is no stranger to the shooting fraternity. He represented India at the 2002 Busan Asian Games, and competed in three World Championships and eight World Cups. He is among the few sports administrators who truly understand the pressures and intricacies of elite competition. His deep-rooted connection to the sport is complemented by a clear, athlete-first vision.
Jindal’s entry comes as Indian shooting navigates a complex landscape — balancing impressive global performances with the need for systemic reforms. While Indian shooters continue to shine internationally, many within the ecosystem point to the pressing need for strategic leadership, transparency, and infrastructure development—areas where Jindal is uniquely positioned to deliver.
As Chairman of Jindal Steel & Power and Founding Chancellor of O.P. Jindal Global University, he brings a proven track record in institution-building, talent development, and forward-looking governance — capabilities that could significantly benefit Indian sport.
His campaign is already gaining momentum. At a recent outreach dinner, representatives from 18 of the 34 state rifle associations expressed support for his vision — a strong early indicator of growing consensus.
Jindal’s roadmap for Indian shooting emphasizes the creation of modern infrastructure, enhanced funding for grassroots talent, and the development of global partnerships for knowledge exchange. These priorities reflect his long-term commitment to strengthening the sport from the grassroots to the elite level, ensuring athletes have access to world-class resources.
Indian shooting stands at a critical juncture. Jindal’s rare combination of policy insight, competitive experience, and administrative leadership gives him a distinct edge.
His entry is not just about changing the leadership of the NRAI — it’s about changing the mindset. One that puts athletes first, embraces innovation, and aims to position India as a dominant force in global shooting.
If elected, Naveen Jindal could well be the game-changer Indian shooting has been waiting for.