Meghalaya signs historic MoU to develop world-class shooting infrastructure

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaJuly 8, 2025

In a landmark step towards the development of shooting sports in the Northeast region, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed today between K Sultan Singh, Secretary General of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), John F Kharshiing, President of the Shooting Association of Meghalaya, and the Sports Department of the Government of Meghalaya.

The signing ceremony took place in the august presence of the Chief Minister of Meghalaya, Conrad K Sangma, the President of NRAI, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, signifying a shared vision to promote and nurture shooting talent across the state.

This tripartite agreement aims to establish a structured roadmap for developing world-class shooting infrastructure in Meghalaya, implementing coaching and training programs, and identifying and nurturing young talent from grassroots to elite levels. 

It also reflects a broader commitment to integrating Meghalaya into the national and international shooting sports ecosystem.

Speaking on the occasion, Chief Minister Conrad K. Sangma welcomed the initiative, stating, “This collaboration marks a new chapter in the sporting history of Meghalaya. We are proud to partner with NRAI in building a robust ecosystem that empowers our youth to dream big in shooting sports.”

President of NRAI, Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, lauded the forward-thinking approach of the Meghalaya government and said, “The Northeast has always had immense sporting potential. This partnership will lay the foundation for Meghalaya to become a shooting powerhouse in the years to come.” The President, NRAI, also stated that “as per the MOU NRAI will host one open india championship annually which would be a huge boost to the economy of Meghalaya as over 4000 athletes would come for the one month of Championships at their own cost”

The MoU outlines joint responsibilities in infrastructure development, technical training, equipment access, and hosting future competitions in the state. It is expected to serve as a model for other states to emulate.

The event was attended by Dr. Vijay Kumar D IAS, Commissioner, Sports, Shri. PB War Nongbri, Asst Director, DSYA, senior officials from the Government of Meghalaya, Shri. Neil Sootinck, General Secretary, Shooting Association of Meghalaya, 

The National Rifle Association of India through Mr. K Sultan Singh, Secretary General, having office at NRAI House,51-B, Institutional Area, Tughlakabad, New Delhi – 110062

The State Government of Meghalaya, through DD Shira, MCS, Director, Directorate of Sports & Youth Affairs, Government of Meghalaya, having office at J.N.S Complex, Polo Grounds, Shillong – 793001.

Shooting Association of Meghalaya, through the President, Mr. John F Kharshiing, having its office at Dilara, Laitumkhrah, Shillong – 793003