Uttarakhand mourns its sporting icon
PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE / New Tehri
A wave of grief swept across Uttarakhand and the Indian sporting fraternity on Friday following the demise of celebrated shooter and coach Jaspal Rana at the age of 49. One of India’s most decorated shooters and a guiding force behind several international champions, Rana’s death marks the end of an illustrious chapter in Indian shooting.
According to reports, Rana, who was serving as the high-performance coach of India’s pistol shooting team, fell ill while returning from the ISSF World Cup in Munich. After reaching New Delhi, he was admitted to a hospital in Saket for treatment. The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) later confirmed his demise.
A native of Chilamu village in Tehri district, Uttarakhand, Rana was a source of immense pride for the State. Through his achievements as a shooter and later as a coach, he played a pivotal role in establishing India as a force in international shooting.
His shooting academy in Majhon, Dehradun, nurtured numerous national and international-level athletes. Rana was widely credited with mentoring some of India’s finest shooters, including Olympian Manu Bhaker, helping them achieve success on the global stage.
Known for his dedication, discipline and passion for the sport, Rana inspired generations of young shooters. His contribution to Indian sports, both as a champion marksman and an accomplished coach, will be remembered for years to come.
PM expresses sadness over the passing Jaspal Rana.
“Deeply saddened by the passing of Shri Jaspal Rana Ji. His passing is a profound loss to the world of Indian sports.
He brought immense glory to the nation through his extraordinary achievements in shooting. Equally remarkable was his contribution as a mentor, shaping and guiding young athletes with great dedication. His unwavering commitment to excellence, discipline and service to the sporting world earned him immense admiration.
My thoughts are with his family, friends and the entire sporting fraternity in this hour of grief. Om Shanti.” PM Modi posted on X.
