The resounding success of shooter Sift Kaur Samra at the ISSF World Cup has once again underscored not only the exceptional talent of one of India’s emerging shooting stars but also the comprehensive sports infrastructure fostered at Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU). The gold medal triumph by Sift Kaur, a BPES (Bachelor of Physical Education and Sports) student at GNDU and world record holder in the 50m Rifle 3 Positions event, is a testament to the university’s unwavering commitment to nurturing sporting excellence.
A Legacy of Excellence
GNDU has, over the past five years, established an inclusive and forward-thinking sports programme that places a special emphasis on non-traditional sports in Punjab. With facilities for disciplines such as shooting, archery, cycling, kayaking, and fencing, the institution has carved out a niche that attracts talents from across the country. Particularly, the shooting programme has emerged as a beacon of success on the international stage. Three notable members of the GNDU shooting team – Arjuna Awardee Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar, Sift Kaur Samra, and Ashi Chouksey – earned their spots on India’s contingent for the Paris Olympics, while five professional shooters from the university have proudly represented India at esteemed events like the World University Games, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games.
Infrastructure and Support: The GNDU Advantage
The journey to international acclaim began when GNDU inaugurated its own shooting range in 2007-08—a pioneering step in a region where the only alternative was a facility at PAP in Jalandhar. “The range was set up on the university campus so that we could provide the facility to the shooters and prepare them for inter-university, national, and international-level competitions,” said Kanwar Mandeep Singh, Sports Director at GNDU. The campus facility, complete with a 30-target setup, has been instrumental in grooming athletes through free boarding, lodging, and rigorous training, laying a solid foundation for future champions.
Global Recognition and Future Aspirations
The past sports cycle of 2024-25 has been particularly fruitful for GNDU. The university amassed an impressive haul of 16 gold, eight silver, and one bronze medals at various international and national competitions. Their achievements also include notable placements in the North Zone Youth Festival and the inter-university games. Highlighting these accomplishments, GNDU shooters have delivered standout performances at events like the Asian Games in Hangzhou and the Paris Olympics.
“Both Sift Kaur and Tomar were medal aspirants even before their journey to Paris began, having secured gold at the Asian Games in Hangzhou with individual feats in their respective events. Their consistent performances on the international circuit have indeed elevated the profile of our programme,” remarked Rajwinder Kaur, the university’s shooting coach.
A Magnet for Aspiring Shooters
What makes GNDU an attractive destination for budding athletes? Krishna Suresh Prabhu, a Master’s student in Physical Education at GNDU from Mumbai, explains that the university stands out for offering integrated sports programmes at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. “Apart from the state-of-the-art shooting range, the university provides access to a gymnasium, in-house physiotherapy, and psychological training sessions—all crucial for a sport that demands precision and focus,” Prabhu shared. His own daily training regimen of two to three hours reflects the disciplined culture nurtured at GNDU.
The university’s commitment extends beyond local talent, drawing under-training shooters from states such as Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Punjab. Supported by a structured regime that includes five meals a day tailored to the athletes’ nutritional needs and comprehensive sports science and medicine services, GNDU ensures a holistic approach to athlete development.
Investing in the Future
With an annual sports programme budget of Rs 8-9 crore, GNDU is set to further its support for its athletes by introducing stipends for those winning medals at international competitions. “We already offer cash awards for medalists, and our aim is to eventually provide a monthly stipend to encourage more youngsters, particularly from Punjab, to take up sports,” said Kanwar Mandeep Singh.
The success of GNDU’s shooting programme and its broader sports initiatives not only spotlight the institution’s dedication to excellence but also serve as an inspiration for future generations of Indian athletes. As rising talents continue to emerge, the vision of GNDU remains clear: to empower athletes with the best training, facilities, and support, thereby ensuring that the nation remains at the forefront of international sports.
