What is the Impact of NRAI and ISSF Academy's MoU on Coaching in India?

New Delhi, July 15 (NationPress) The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) has formed a strategic alliance with the ISSF Academy, the official coaching and educational branch of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF), aimed at introducing ISSF-certified coaching courses in India.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked in New Delhi on Tuesday, with attendees including Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, President of NRAI, Vesa Nissinen, Director of ISSF Academy, K. Sultan Singh, Secretary General of NRAI, and Karoliina Nissinen, CEO of ISSF Academy.

This collaboration will provide Indian coaches with access to world-class training domestically, minimizing the need for overseas travel and enhancing educational opportunities across various regions.

Moreover, it aims to fortify the grassroots framework of Indian shooting by cultivating a broader base of qualified coaches proficient in modern techniques and international best practices. The NRAI's initiative will also be supported by Olympic Gold Quest (OGQ) as partners.

In a statement regarding this groundbreaking development, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, President of NRAI, remarked, “This partnership with the ISSF Academy signifies a pivotal transformation in coaching education within Indian shooting. For the first time, Indian coaches will have access to globally certified training right here at home, eliminating geographical and financial barriers. By integrating international standards into our coaching framework, we elevate the mentorship quality at the elite level while investing in the long-term development of grassroots talent.”

The agreement will allow for the organization of four categories of ISSF Certified Coaches Courses in India: Category A (Elite/International Level), Category B (Advanced Level), Category C (Intermediate Level), and Category D (Introductory Level), adhering to the academic framework and certification criteria established by ISSF Academy.

Commenting on the partnership, Vesa Nissinen, director of ISSF Academy stated, “We are delighted to formalize this partnership with the NRAI. By introducing ISSF-certified coaching education in India, we contribute to developing a more robust and standardized coaching framework in one of the globe’s most vibrant shooting nations. This collaboration will facilitate knowledge transfer, promote coaching excellence, and ultimately benefit the entire shooting ecosystem both in India and worldwide.”

The ISSF Academy will nominate certified instructors and ensure the academic quality and delivery of the courses. Furthermore, these courses will be conducted on a zonal basis throughout India, acknowledging the nation's extensive geographical diversity. This method will ensure equal opportunities for coaches from various regions to participate and gain from the programs, promoting broader access and engagement.

Additionally, K. Sultan Singh, Secretary General of NRAI, expressed gratitude towards the ISSF and the ISSF Academy for their faith and support in launching this initiative in India. He stated, “This collaboration is a crucial leap forward in enhancing the Indian shooting ecosystem. By making internationally accredited coaching education available across the nation, we are not only upgrading our coaches' skills but also establishing a consistent and structured approach to athlete development. This partnership embodies our mutual commitment to excellence, and we eagerly anticipate building a robust future for the sport together.”