Mumbai: India is hosting the FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024 for the first time, with the opening ceremony held at Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies (MRIIRS) in Faridabad. The event, organized by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU), brings together top university-level athletes from around the world.

The opening ceremony was attended by key dignitaries, including government of Haryana’s minister of state for youth empowerment & entrepreneurship, sports, and law & legislative affairs, Gaurav Gautam and Government of India, IAS, secretary of sports, ministry of youth affairs & sports, Sujata Chaturvedi

The championship has drawn over 200 athletes from 23 countries, including eight Olympians such as Privratsky Jiri (Czech Republic), Sevval Layada Tarhan (Turkey), and Nobata Misaki (Japan). The Indian team includes shooters like Aishwarya Pratap Singh Tomar, Sift Kaur Samra, Manini Kaushik, and Bakhtyaruddin Mohamadmuzahid Malek, competing for top honors.

As the host university, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research & Studies has played a crucial role in making this event possible. Organising committee president and Manav Rachna Educational Institutions VP Dr. Amit Bhalla said, “It is a profound honor for Manav Rachna to serve as the host university for the FISU World University Championship Shooting 2024, a landmark moment for India and for university sports worldwide. This championship embodies the values of resilience, unity, and sportsmanship that transcend borders, fostering a global spirit of collaboration and mutual respect. We celebrate not only the skill and dedication of these exceptional athletes but also the cultural exchange and camaraderie that sports inspire. This event is more than a competition—it is a platform for creating relationships, sharing stories, and building memories that will connect and inspire future generations across the globe.”

As a key partner in the event, Association of Indian Universities (AIU) general secretary Dr Pankaj Mittal, underscored the pivotal role AIU plays in nurturing sports talent at the university level. "Over the next five days, we will witness intense competition and exceptional sportsmanship as athletes from around the world strive for glory. This championship exemplifies AIU’s commitment to promoting university sports, fostering international collaboration, and building lasting relationships among students from diverse nations," she stated.

AIU’s role in promoting sports at the university level has been instrumental in creating platforms for student-athletes to showcase their talents globally. The association has long championed the cause of sports in universities, and this event is a testament to their dedication to enhancing university sports culture in India.

FISU VP Marian Dymalski said, “Shooting sports require immense strength, determination, and commitment. This event provides athletes with a platform to showcase their skills and achieve greatness. FISU is proud to support these athletes as they strive for excellence, and through their dedication”.

Addressing the opening ceremony, government of Haryana’s minister of state for youth empowerment & entrepreneurship, sports, and law & legislative affairs, Gaurav Gautam emphasised the growing importance of India as a host nation for international sporting events. "India has vast potential as a host for global sporting competitions, and I am confident that this championship will pave the way for us to organize many more such prestigious events in the future," he said.

Government of India, IAS, secretary of sports, ministry of youth affairs & sports, Sujata Chaturvedi echoed this sentiment, welcoming the athletes from across the world. "It is a privilege to host athletes from over 23 countries here in India. I extend a warm welcome to all the participants to experience the rich heritage and dynamic sports culture that our country proudly upholds," she said.

The opening ceremony included a vibrant display, with athletes carrying their national flags, followed by cultural performances celebrating India’s heritage. A formal athletes' pledge underscored the values of integrity and sportsmanship, setting the tone for the competitions ahead.