Olympic silver medallist calls out NRAI’s repeated snub despite proven track record
Olympic silver medallist Vijay Kumar has publicly expressed his disappointment over being continuously overlooked for a national coaching role by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI). The decorated pistol shooter, who won silver at the 2012 London Olympics in the men’s 25m rapid fire pistol event, revealed that despite his repeated interest and qualifications, his name has not been considered for any significant coaching responsibility within the national setup.
In a strongly worded letter addressed to NRAI President Kalikesh Singh Deo, Vijay Kumar outlined his frustration and questioned the lack of transparency and merit in the federation’s selection process for coaching roles. “I have consistently applied for coaching positions and received no response or explanation. My achievements as a shooter and my experience should have merited at least a fair hearing,” he wrote.
Kumar, a recipient of the Padma Shri and the Arjuna Award, retired from competitive shooting and transitioned into coaching and mentoring young talent in recent years. He has also served with the Indian Army with distinction and is known for his discipline and technical expertise in pistol shooting disciplines.
Speaking to media outlets following his letter, Kumar said, “It hurts to be ignored not just once, but time and again. I have dedicated my life to the sport and have plenty to contribute as a coach. But it seems personal preferences and politics outweigh merit.”
The letter also highlighted that lesser-experienced individuals have been chosen for important roles, further intensifying his concerns over the selection criteria. Kumar’s grievances echo a larger issue in Indian sport where several former athletes, despite their credentials, struggle to find institutional support or opportunities to give back to the system.
While the NRAI has yet to officially respond to Kumar’s letter, the matter has triggered a wave of reactions from the shooting community. Several former athletes and coaches have voiced their support for Kumar, urging the federation to reevaluate its policies and ensure that decorated athletes are given fair and transparent opportunities in coaching and administration.
As the Paris Olympics approach, Kumar’s concerns also raise a crucial question—can India afford to sideline the experience and wisdom of its sporting heroes at a time when nurturing future champions is more crit
ical than ever?
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