In a notable achievement for the Indian Army, Lieutenant Nishant Mehla of the Spear Corps, serving under the Eastern Command, secured the gold medal in the 10m Air Pistol event at the 18th Gen JJ Singh Officers Shooting Championship. This championship took place from April 10 to April 23, 2025, at the renowned Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU) located at the Infantry School in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.
The championship is part of the Indian Army’s broader Mission Olympics initiative, which aligns with the Khelo India program aimed at nurturing sporting talent and enhancing India’s presence on the international sporting stage. This year’s competition, known as the 2nd Young Blood Inter Div Skill at Arms Championship, attracted officers from various commands, presenting them with an opportunity to showcase their marksmanship abilities and prepare for both national and international competitions, including the Olympics.
Lt Nishant Mehla’s remarkable victory contributes to the rich legacy of the Army Marksmanship Unit, recognized as a pivotal institution for developing world-class shooters. The AMU has a distinguished history of producing Olympic medalists, including Subedar Major Vijay Kumar, who earned a silver in the 25m rapid-fire pistol event at the 2012 London Olympics, and Colonel Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore, who secured a silver medal in shooting at the 2004 Athens Olympics. Both athletes honed their skills at the AMU during their military careers.
The Infantry School in Mhow, where this prestigious championship was held, boasts a historic background as a training establishment for Indian Army officers, dating back to the British era. It has significantly contributed to military training in India, with its Army Marksmanship Unit serving as a cornerstone for the development of shooting talent. The Eastern Command has expressed pride in Lt Mehla’s achievement, wishing him continued success as he aims to represent the Indian Army on larger platforms.
This victory not only highlights Lt Mehla’s individual excellence but also underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing commitment to promoting sports and fostering excellence, playing a vital role in India’s aspiration to emerge as a global sporting powerhouse.
