Need to build a larger pool of shooters for consistency: NRAI president Kalikesh

National Rifle Association of India president Kalikesh Singh Deo stated that India must build a larger pool of athletes to achieve consistency after reviewing the recent Asian Games performance in Japan. While Indian shooters won 15 total medals to finish second behind China, the team unexpectedly failed to win any medals in the men's and women's individual and team air pistol events, with only Suruchi Phogat and Kamaljeet securing gold in the mixed team category.

Kalikesh explained that frequent changes in the men's air pistol squad, driven by objective rolling average scores, disrupt athlete experience and sports science support. To address the problem of plenty, the federation plans to expand support beyond the core team after the World Championships conclude.