In a historic first, India is playing host to the FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024, as the opening ceremony unfolded at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies (MRIIRS) in Faridabad. The event, which is set to bring together top university-level athletes from across the globe, is being organized under the auspices of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), a key body in promoting university sports across India.
The grand opening was graced by prominent dignitaries, including Sh. Gaurav Gautam, Honorable Minister of State for Youth Empowerment & Entrepreneurship, Sports, and Law & Legislative Affairs, Government of Haryana, and Smt. Sujata Chaturvedi, IAS, Secretary of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India.
The FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024 has attracted over 200 athletes from 23 countries, including 8 Olympians such as Privratsky Jiri from the Czech Republic, Sevval Layada Tarhan from Turkey, and Nobata Misaki from Japan. The Indian contingent features notable shooters like Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar, Sift Kaur Samra, Manini Kaushik, and Bakhtyaruddin Mohamadmuzahid Malek, all vying for top performances in the competition.
A Landmark Event for Indian Sports
As the host university, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies has played a crucial role in making this event possible. Dr. Amit Bhalla, President of the Organizing Committee and Vice President of Manav Rachna Educational Institutions, expressed his pride in hosting the championship, saying, “It is a profound honor for Manav Rachna to serve as the host university for the FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024, a landmark moment for India and for university sports worldwide. This championship embodies the values of resilience, unity, and sportsmanship that transcend borders, fostering a global spirit of collaboration and mutual respect. We celebrate not only the skill and dedication of these exceptional athletes but also the cultural exchange and camaraderie that sports inspire. This event is more than a competition—it is a platform for creating relationships, sharing stories, and building memories that will connect and inspire future generations across the globe.”
As a key partner in the event, Dr. (Mrs.) Pankaj Mittal, Secretary General of the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), underscored the pivotal role AIU plays in nurturing sports talent at the university level. “Over the next five days, we will witness intense competition and exceptional sportsmanship as athletes from around the world strive for glory. This championship exemplifies AIU’s commitment to promoting university sports, fostering international collaboration, and building lasting relationships among students from diverse nations,” she stated. AIU’s role in promoting sports at the university level has been instrumental in creating platforms for student-athletes to showcase their talents globally. The association has long championed the cause of sports in universities, and this event is a testament to their dedication to enhancing university sports culture in India.
Mr. Marian Dymalski, Vice President of FISU, emphasized the importance of university sports in shaping future role models “Shooting sports require immense strength, determination, and commitment. This event provides athletes with a platform to showcase their skills and achieve greatness. FISU is proud to support these athletes as they strive for excellence, and through their dedication”.
Addressing the opening ceremony, Sh. Gaurav Gautam, Minister of State for Youth Empowerment & Entrepreneurship, Sports, and Law & Legislative Affairs, Government of Haryana, emphasized the growing importance of India as a host nation for international sporting events. “India has vast potential as a host for global sporting competitions, and I am confident that this championship will pave the way for us to organize many more such prestigious events in the future,” he said.
Smt. Sujata Chaturvedi, IAS, Secretary of Sports, Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, Government of India, echoed this sentiment, welcoming the athletes from across the world. “It is a privilege to host athletes from over 23 countries here in India. I extend a warm welcome to all the participants to experience the rich heritage and dynamic sports culture that our country proudly upholds,” she said.
The opening ceremony included a vibrant display, with athletes carrying their national flags, followed by cultural performances celebrating India’s heritage. A formal athletes’ pledge underscored the values of integrity and sportsmanship, setting the tone for the competitions ahead.
