New Delhi, Jan 16 (NationPress) Renowned Indian shooter and recipient of the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award, Jitu Rai, asserts that the forthcoming Shooting League of India (SLI) will significantly enhance the sport's visibility nationwide and elevate the competitive bar for Indian marksmen. During the launch event of the UP Prometheans, one of the franchises in the SLI, Rai expressed that this league is poised to offer a dynamic platform that links elite performances to broader public interest.

"This represents a new era for shooting in India. With this platform, enthusiasts from around the globe can engage with the sport. Even if you're not familiar with shooting, you can still appreciate it. Watching it allows people to discover their own passion and potential," Rai commented.

As a former world No. 1 and an accomplished pistol shooter, Rai has secured numerous ISSF World Cup gold medals and made history as the first Indian pistol shooter to qualify for an Olympic final, narrowly finishing fourth at Rio 2016.

He is confident that a franchise-oriented league like the SLI will enhance the sport's transparency and make it more relatable for fans, while also highlighting the extensive talent and infrastructure that supports competitive shooting.

"Internationally, people have a basic understanding of shooting, but within India, many remain unaware of how the sport operates, the techniques involved, and the facilities available. The SLI will offer everyone a chance to see shooting in action, understand the facilities, and witness the sport's promotion firsthand," he stated.

Rai emphasized the necessity of global exposure and competition, suggesting that the SLI could serve as a foundation for nurturing future champions.

"Aspiring shooters will feel even more driven. Talent will emerge from every corner of the world, making Indian shooters increasingly competitive. You can certainly expect to see world-class champions arising from the Shooting League of India," he asserted.

He also lauded the UP Prometheans’ state-of-the-art shooting range and multi-sport facilities, noting that they meet the highest standards and align with the league's vision of establishing a robust and contemporary shooting ecosystem.

"The shooting range here is exceptional. Upon visiting the facilities, especially the range, and noting the inclusion of sports like badminton and swimming, it became evident that a solid sporting infrastructure has been established. This is precisely the environment that Indian shooting needs as we advance into a league like the SLI," he concluded.