The National Rifle Association of India: Selection Criteria for National Team Ranking
The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has established comprehensive criteria for ranking and selecting its national team for all ISSF rifle events. This policy, approved by the Governing Body on February 15, 2025, and amended on May 17, 2025, aims to ensure a transparent and fair selection process for athletes competing on international platforms.
Overview of the Selection Policy
The NRAI will utilize the Moving Average Method (MAM) to rank its rifle shooters for international competitions and internal assessments. This selection policy is continuous and may be updated as necessary. The amendments will take effect from the commencement of the 67th National Shooting Championship Competitions.
Key Features of the Selection Policy 2025
- Shooters are categorized into two groups: Group A and Group B.
- Group A consists solely of the top-ranking shooters in Olympic events, limited to the senior category.
- Group B includes shooters eligible for Open Selection Trials, juniors/youth shooters, and those opting out of Group A.
- National Squad selection for Olympic events will come exclusively from Group A.
- Group A shooters are prohibited from participating in Group B trials, with specific exceptions noted.
- Group A shooters cannot change groups unless they drop in ranking or receive specific permission.
- There will be no junior/youth category in Group A; junior/youth events will occur under Group B.
- After the fourth trial, rankings from both groups will be merged, and revised rankings will be announced.
- Both groups will maintain separate logs, consolidated twice yearly after the National Championship and after the fourth trial.
Ranking Methodology: Moving Average Method (MAM)
The MAM ranks shooters by calculating the average score based on their best performances:
- The latest five scores will be considered, with the lowest score excluded.
- The average of the highest four scores will constitute the Average Score (AvS).
- Scores must be within 180 days to be eligible for consideration.
In special circumstances, exceptions may apply, as outlined in the policy.
Selection Trials and Group Composition
Selection for Group A will be based on rankings concluded after the 67th National Championship, incorporating scores from Selection Trials 3 (2023) onwards. Participation in the first two trials of 2025 is mandatory for selection into the National Squad 2025.
For world competitions in 2025, participation in these trials is also required. Only Group A shooters will participate in finals for selection trials.
Guidelines for Weapon Breakage and Score Bypass
In cases of weapon breakage during events, shooters may bypass scores under certain conditions:
- Scores disrupted by equipment failure will be considered not shot, provided a range officer certifies the incident.
- Disqualifications due to equipment control failures will also allow for score bypassing under specific circumstances.
Importantly, shooters may only bypass scores once per shooting calendar year.
Time Frame for Score Calculation
Scores for the Moving Average Method must be recorded within a 180-day window. This timeframe ensures that the NRAI selects shooters based on their most recent performances. The NRAI reserves the right to extend this timeframe in extraordinary circumstances.
Score Logging and Maintenance Norms
Separate score logs for Groups A and B will be maintained and consolidated twice a year. Group B junior/youth shooters' qualifications will be transferred to the main log after each National Championship, allowing them to reconsider their categories.
Team Selection for Mixed and Non-Olympic Events
For mixed events, the top-ranked male and female shooters will be selected based on merit, with potential alterations made on the recommendations of foreign coaches. For non-Olympic events, selection trials will be conducted in Group B only.
National Squad Selection Criteria for 2025
The National Squad for 2025 will be formed solely from Group A shooters based on rankings after the first two selection trials. All selected shooters are expected to maintain an attendance of 85% at national coaching camps to remain eligible for international competitions.
Code of Conduct and Compliance
All shooters are required to adhere to a strict code of conduct during training and competitions, with specific guidelines on behavior, equipment care, and communication. Violations may result in disciplinary action.
Conclusion
The NRAI is committed to fostering a transparent, fair, and effective selection process for its national team. By implementing these criteria, the NRAI aims to ensure that the most deserving athletes represent India in international shooting competitions.
For more detailed information, please refer to the official NRAI documentation or contact the association directly.