Byree: Shri Raosaheb P. Koche, Director of Intelligence, Odisha, led the formal inauguration of the 54th State Police Rifle Shooting Competition this morning at the Police Training Institute (PTI), Byree. In a ceremony marked by discipline and professional pride, Shri Koche was received with an impressive parade by the participating units, signifying the start of the high-stakes championship.
Delivering the keynote address, Shri Koche emphasized that his primary objective for the event is the continuous enhancement of marksmanship and tactical rifle skills among the state’s police officers. He underscored that the proficiency displayed on the range is a direct reflection of the force’s operational readiness.
Expressing high expectations for the tournament, State Intelligence Chief Shri Koche stated his hope that every competitor would perform at their peak to uphold the unique national reputation and identity earned by the Odisha Police.
Under the leadership of Shri Koche, the competition serves as more than a sporting event; it is a vital training exercise designed to foster self-confidence and professional excellence. He specifically called upon the participants to engage with a spirit of sportsmanship while maintaining the rigorous standards required of the service.
The championship has drawn 16 teams representing various police ranges and battalions from across Odisha. A total of 269 personnel are competing, including 265 men and 4 women, showcasing a broad spectrum of the department’s shooting talent. The event is scheduled to continue through the first of next month.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by a distinguished group of senior officers, including IGP (SAP) Shri Satish Gajbhiye, Commandant of PTI Bayree Shri Ashok Kumar Dehuri, Commandant of the 6th OSAP Cuttack Shri Surya Narayan Mallick, and State Police Headquarters Sports Officer Shri Nilamadhab Swain.