The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) announced that the July 2026 editions of its domestic India Open Competitions are named in honour of two towering icons of Indian shooting and sports administration:
- Jaspal Rana Memorial India Open Competition / Cup (Rifle & Pistol NR Events): Held at Trishul Shooting Range, Maharana Pratap Sports College, Raipur, Dehradun, Uttarakhand from 13th to 30th July 2026 (shifted from Bhopal under Circular No. TRG/3 IOC/NS/1244/2026 and extended through 30th July due to high entries).
- Raja Randhir Singh Memorial Cup 2026 (Shotgun Events): Organized at New Moti Bagh Gun Club, Patiala, Punjab from 22nd to 31st July 2026 in cooperation with the Punjab Rifle Shooting Association and New Moti Bagh Gun Club (Circular No. TRG/RRSMC/Shotgun/0175/NS/2026).
Statements from NRAI Leadership
“Jaspal Rana and Raja Randhir Singh are two towering figures whose contributions fundamentally shaped the growth and success of shooting in India. While Jaspal inspired generations through his achievements as a champion shooter, coach, and mentor, Raja Randhir Singh left an enduring impact both as an elite athlete and as one of the most respected sports administrators globally. Naming the July 2026 edition of India Open Competitions in their memory is a fitting tribute to their extraordinary legacies and the lasting inspiration they provide to the sporting community.” — Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, President, NRAI
“The India Open Competitions serve as a critical launchpad for our domestic circuit, bringing together elite athletes and the next generation of talent. By anchoring these tournaments to the names of Jaspal Rana and Raja Randhir Singh, we want our upcoming shooters to draw strength and inspiration from their journeys every time they step onto the firing line. This initiative bridges our glorious history with the future of Indian shooting, reinforcing the benchmark of excellence required to win at the highest international levels.” — Pawankumar Singh, Secretary General, NRAI