News
Indian Pistol Team Coach Jaspal Rana No More, Sporting World Mourns
Indian sport has suffered a major loss with the passing of Jaspal Rana, one of the country’s most celebrated shooters and an accomplished coach. The former Asian Games gold medallist, who played a pivotal role in shaping India’s pistol shooting success, died following health complications after returning from an international assignment.
Indian shooting fraternity was plunged into grief on Thursday night following the demise of Jaspal Rana, the renowned shooting coach and former Asian Games gold medallist. He was 49 years old.
According to National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) president Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, Rana passed away at a hospital in New Delhi, where he had been undergoing treatment following recent health complications.
Rana had reportedly fallen ill during the Indian contingent’s return journey from the ISSF World Cup in Munich, Germany. Upon arrival in the national capital, he was immediately admitted to hospital, where doctors performed a medical procedure to implant a stent in an effort to stabilise his condition. Despite medical intervention, he breathed his last on Thursday night.
Widely regarded as one of India’s finest shooters, Jaspal Rana enjoyed a glittering competitive career that inspired generations of athletes. He earned national acclaim through his remarkable performances at international events, including the Asian Games, where he brought glory to the country with his gold medal-winning achievements.
After retiring from active competition, Rana dedicated himself to coaching and talent development. As the high-performance coach for Indian pistol shooters, he played an instrumental role in mentoring several athletes and strengthening India’s position as a global force in shooting sports.
His technical expertise, disciplined approach, and unwavering commitment to excellence earned him immense respect within the sporting community. Colleagues and former trainees often credited him for nurturing young talent and instilling confidence in shooters competing at the highest levels.
Tributes poured in from athletes, administrators, and fans across the country, remembering Rana not only for his accomplishments on the range but also for his contribution to the growth of Indian shooting.
His passing marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in Indian sport, leaving behind a legacy defined by achievement, mentorship, and an enduring passion for excellence.
