Shillong, Jul 8: A memorandum of understanding was signed today between the Meghalaya government and the National Rifle Association of India to develop the sport of shooting in the state and the wider North East.
The other signatory to the deal is the Shooting Association of Meghalaya and the tripartite agreement aims to establish a structured roadmap for developing world-class shooting infrastructure in Meghalaya, implementing coaching and training programmes and identifying and nurturing young talent from grassroots to elite levels, a press release stated, adding that it also reflects a broader commitment to integrating Meghalaya into the national and international shooting sports ecosystem.
Meghalaya has a lot of catching up to do in shooting nationally. Even among North East states its performances are only middling – Meghalaya came fourth out of six participating states at last year’s North East Zone Shooting Championship. Although an indoor training range of its own was opened a few years ago, SAM shooters have to largely rely on army facilities in Happy Valley for their training and competitions.
As part of the MoU, NRAI President Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo said that the national body will hold one open India championship annually in Meghalaya.
Speaking today at the signing ceremony, Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma welcomed the initiative, stating, “This collaboration marks a new chapter in the sporting history of Meghalaya. We are proud to partner with NRAI in building a robust ecosystem that empowers our youth to dream big in shooting sports.”
The MoU outlines joint responsibilities in infrastructure development, technical training, equipment access and hosting future competitions in the state. It is expected to serve as a model for other states to emulate, the press release added.
The agreement was signed by NRAI Secretary General K Sultan Singh, Meghalaya Director of Sports & Youth Affairs Dikki D Shira and SAM President John F Kharshiing. The latter is also a Vice-President of the NRAI.
(Representative photo)
