Double Olympic-medallist shooter Manu Bhaker’s coach Jaspal Rana has strongly criticized the National Rifle Association of India’s (NRAI) “ever-changing” Olympic selection policy, stating that it has harmed promising talents and will continue to do so if consistency is not maintained. Rana, a pistol legend with three Asiad gold medals, emphasized the need for a fixed policy, highlighting that the current system fails to support shooters and often leads to their decline.

Rana pointed out that the selection policy changes every six months, which creates uncertainty and makes it difficult for shooters to prepare. He suggested that the federation should decide on a policy and stick to it, regardless of whether it is right or wrong. This consistency, he believes, will significantly improve the performance of shooters.

“The (federation’s) selection policy changes every six months. I met the sports minister and told him ‘get the selection policy from the federation. Let them decide… whatever they decide, right or wrong, we are not discussing that, and then stick to it’.

“You will see the difference (in the performance of shooters),” said the decorated marksman.

Rana cited examples of talented shooters like Saurabh Chaudhary and Jitu Rai, who faded away quickly despite their initial success. He also mentioned Arjun Babuta, who finished fourth in Paris and is now struggling to regain his form. Rana questioned why there is no effort to support these shooters and help them regain their position.

The NRAI had amended its selection criteria in 2021, reducing bonus points for quota winners and reintroducing trials. However, Rana argued that even with these changes, there is no consistency, and the federation’s approach remains unclear. He emphasized that Olympic and world medallists need protection and support to continue performing at the highest level.

“Where is (pistol shooter) Saurabh Chaudhary, where is (Asian Games gold medallist pistol shooter) Jitu Rai? Does anybody talk about them? No. Are we talking about (10m air rifle shooter) Arjun Babuta, who finished fourth in Paris? He missed the medal by a fraction,” the firebrand 48-year-old asked.

“Nobody is thinking how to get him back on the platform (again),” said Rana, who was allegedly told to leave the Karni Singh ranges by the federation’s High Performance Director Pierre Beauchamp during the Paris Olympics Selection Trials.

Rana’s concerns are particularly relevant for Manu Bhaker, who won two bronze medals in Paris but will have to fight for a place in the national squad once she returns from her break. He advocated for a system that allows Olympic medallists to compete in every trial, ensuring they receive the necessary facilities and support to continue their success.

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