Assam's Shooting Potential: Bhaba Kalita Advocates for Infrastructure and Support

Dispur, India Aug 25, 2026 ALN: Assam’s Rifle and Shooting Association general secretary Bhaba Kalita, who is also the joint secretary of the National Rifle Association of India, believes that shooting has tremendous potential in the state and it can emerge as a major sporting discipline with the right support and infrastructure. In an interaction, Kalita also spoke about the need to renovate the Kahilipara Shooting Range and provide better facilities to nurture and encourage young shooters in Assam. Here are the excerpts.

Q: How do you see the potential of shooting in Assam?

Kalita: The potential is very good. We have many young and talented shooters in the state who have the ability to excel at the highest level. If we can provide them with proper infrastructure, quality coaching, and regular exposure to competitions, I am confident that they can win medals at the international level.

Shooting as a sport has seen a significant rise in popularity across India, particularly in recent years. The success of Indian shooters in international competitions, including the Olympics and World Championships, has inspired many young athletes to take up the sport. Assam, with its rich history of sports and a growing interest in shooting, stands at a pivotal moment where investment in infrastructure and support could yield fruitful results.

Q: What are the major challenges in developing young shooters in the state?

Kalita: One of the biggest challenges is the quality infrastructure, and also coaches. We have talented youngsters, but they need the right facilities and coaching to develop their skills. Shooting is also an expensive sport, making it difficult for many young shooters to travel outside the state for regular training.

The financial aspect of shooting cannot be understated. Unlike many other sports, shooting requires specialized equipment, including firearms, ammunition, and safety gear, which can be prohibitively expensive. This financial burden can deter potential athletes from pursuing the sport seriously. Furthermore, the lack of local training facilities means that many aspiring shooters must seek training opportunities outside the state, often leading to additional costs associated with travel and accommodation.

Q: What is the current condition of shooting infrastructure in Assam?

Kalita: We have a shooting range at the 4th APBn Complex in Kahilipara, but unfortunately, the infrastructure is not in good shape and needs proper renovation. If we genuinely want to provide our young shooters with the facilities they need, the range needs to be properly maintained to the required standards.

The Kahilipara Shooting Range, while serving as a vital training ground for local shooters, has been criticized for its inadequate facilities. Renovation efforts could not only improve the training environment but also attract national-level competitions to Assam, which would further enhance the state's profile in the shooting sports arena. A well-maintained facility could also serve as a hub for regional events, fostering a competitive spirit among young athletes.

Q: Have you approached the authorities regarding renovation of the Kahilipara range?

Kalita: Yes, we have. The Kahilipara campus comes under the Sports Authority of Assam, and we have approached the authority for renovation and improvement of the facilities. However, we are still awaiting the response we had hoped for, and the delay is affecting the training of our shooters. Earlier, we regularly invited coaches from outside the state to train our young shooters, but due to the present condition of the range, we have had to restrict such programmes.

The responsiveness of the Sports Authority of Assam to these requests is crucial. Timely renovations and upgrades could not only enhance the training experience for local shooters but also signify the government's commitment to developing sports in the region. The potential to host state and national competitions could also provide a significant boost to local tourism and community engagement.

Q: How are young shooters preparing for national-level competitions?

Kalita: Several of our shooters are currently taking coaching in Delhi and other cities. However, their number is limited because shooting is an expensive sport, and it is not easy for every shooter to travel to different places for regular training. In Guwahati, two schools—South Point School and Vandya International School—have shooting ranges where some of our young shooters are also practising. These facilities are helping them continue their training and prepare for competitions.

Schools with shooting ranges play a critical role in the development of young shooters. They provide accessible training opportunities and create a competitive environment that can help young athletes hone their skills. However, the limited number of such facilities means that many aspiring shooters may miss out on essential training experiences. Expanding access to shooting ranges in schools and community centers could have a profound impact on the sport's growth in Assam.

Q: Is there any shortage of shooting equipment for the shooters?

Kalita: There is no major shortage of equipment. We are in a position to provide the necessary equipment to our shooters for training.

While equipment availability is currently sufficient, ongoing support and investment are essential to ensure that young shooters have access to the latest technology and gear. As the sport evolves, so too must the resources available to athletes. This includes not only firearms and ammunition but also training aids and safety equipment that meet international standards. Ensuring that young shooters are equipped with high-quality gear can significantly enhance their training outcomes and performance in competitions.

In conclusion, the future of shooting in Assam appears promising, but it hinges on the development of infrastructure, coaching, and financial support for young athletes. Bhaba Kalita's advocacy for improvements at the Kahilipara Shooting Range and the need for enhanced training facilities reflects a broader vision for elevating shooting as a competitive sport in the state. With the right investments and support, Assam could become a powerhouse in shooting sports, producing athletes capable of competing on the world stage.