Bhubaneswar: The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) President, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, has expressed strong confidence in the trajectory of the upcoming Shooting League of India (SLI), highlighting the growing excitement, the addition of new franchises, and a long-term vision for the sport.
Following a preparatory meeting with owners of the initial franchises in Mumbai, Shri Singh Deo affirmed that the league is poised to be a “transformative chapter in Indian sport,” blending elite competition with high-octane entertainment.
The inaugural SLI season, which has been rescheduled to early 2026 to align perfectly with the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) calendar and maximize international participation, is gaining significant commercial traction.
While initially planning for 6-8 teams, the league has already welcomed the owners of the Delhi and Mumbai franchises. President Shri Singh Deo met with them to finalize key operational aspects, including team-building, athlete onboarding, marketing strategies, and venue readiness.
The NRAI President noted that the league is attracting a strong global interest, with over 400 athletes from more than 20 countries having registered their interest to participate. This international exposure is a key component of the league’s model.
NRAI President Shri Singh Deo consistently highlighted that the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) is a major factor in the success and credibility of the Shooting League of India (SLI)
Shri Singh Deo emphasized that the SLI’s unique, spectator-friendly format—which includes mixed-team events across all Olympic disciplines (Rifle, Pistol, and Shotgun)—is designed to make shooting more accessible and appealing to a broader audience.
“Everyone is excited to embark on this journey that will herald the future of Indian shooting. The SLI is one of its kind globally, and we are confident it will lead in technological innovation and expand the sport’s popularity even further,” said Shri Singh Deo.
The NRAI Chief’s commitment extends beyond just the competition. The league structure will categorize participants into four tiers—Elite Champions, World Elite, National Champions, and Junior & Youth Champions—to ensure a balanced mix of experience and emerging talent.
With the rescheduling to early 2026, the NRAI and the franchises are now intensifying preparations. Official franchise announcements, team unveilings, and the complete league schedule are expected to be rolled out in the coming months, building anticipation for what promises to be a landmark moment for Indian shooting.
The league is a cornerstone of the NRAI’s broader strategy to capitalize on India’s recent Olympic successes, aiming to make shooting not only an elite sport but also an economically viable platform that brings recognition, investment, and wider participation.