Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, May 18: The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has greenlit major plans for the inaugural Shooting League of India (SLI), including the introduction of mixed team events across all major shooting disciplines. The decision was taken at a Governing Board meeting held on Saturday, marking a significant step in transforming the shooting sport landscape in India.
The SLI will debut from November 20 to December 2, 2025, with the opening ceremony scheduled for November 20. Eight franchise teams will compete in a league format, divided into two pools of four. Group matches will be held from November 21 to 26, followed by knockout rounds featuring the top two teams from each group.
The league will feature mixed team events in Pistol (10m, 25m), Rifle (10m, 50m 3-Position), and Shotgun (Trap & Skeet) as per NRAI guidelines. This move aims to elevate the sport's competitiveness and mirror international formats.
In a bid to attract both top-tier Indian and global talent, players will be divided into four categories:
• Elite Champions
• World Elite
• National Champions
• Junior & Youth Championships
This tiered structure is designed to balance experience with emerging talent, enabling mentorship and rapid skill development across age groups.
NRAI President Kalikesh Singh Deo emphasized the league's potential impact. “Blending elite sport with league-style excitement, SLI aims to elevate shooting as a sport and inspire future talent. It’s a pioneering model globally, and the response from the international shooting community has been enthusiastic,” he said.
The board also discussed governance, player recruitment, branding, and marketing strategies. A formal logo launch event is scheduled for June 4, 2025, in New Delhi, while details on league awards and prize money will be released later.
The SLI is being positioned as a professionally managed, franchise-style shooting league, aimed at boosting nationwide interest in shooting sports and unlocking private investment through a robust governance structure.
With a mix of star power, youth engagement, and international attention, the Shooting League of India is poised to be a game-changer in the global shooting arena.