CM orders modernisation of Shooting Range after surprise inspection

PNS

Ranchi

Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Monday conducted a surprise inspection of the Tikait Umrao Singh Shooting Range at Khelgaon in Ranchi and expressed strong displeasure over the poor condition of its infrastructure and maintenance. He directed officials to prepare and implement a time-bound plan for the comprehensive modernisation of the facility to provide world-class training to the state’s shooters.

During the inspection, the Chief Minister reviewed the condition of the 10-metre, 25-metre and 50-metre shooting ranges, along with the maintenance of infrastructure, availability of modern equipment, safety standards, training facilities and other amenities for athletes. He expressed dissatisfaction over the current state of the shooting complex and sought detailed explanations from officials while issuing several directions for immediate improvement. State Sports Minister Sudivya Kumar accompanied him during the visit.

Soren said Jharkhand has consistently produced talented sportspersons who have brought laurels to the state at the national and international levels, making it imperative to provide them with world-class training facilities and modern sports infrastructure. He instructed officials to further strengthen the state’s training ecosystem and ensure that promising athletes from rural and remote areas receive equal opportunities to develop their potential and represent Jharkhand in national and international competitions.

The Chief Minister emphasised that sports play a crucial role not only in competitive success but also in shaping discipline, confidence and the overall personality of young people. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening sports infrastructure, improving training facilities and extending all possible support to athletes.

Directing officials to prepare a comprehensive development plan for the shooting range, Soren said all necessary resources should be made available to ensure that players do not face any inconvenience. He stressed the need for a long-term strategy to develop sports infrastructure in line with international standards so that athletes can train in an environment comparable to global competition.

He noted that the existing facilities have the potential to support athletes competing at the international level, provided they are upgraded and maintained according to prescribed standards. Once improved, he said, the shooting range would enable Jharkhand’s shooters to perform better at national and international events and bring greater recognition to the state.

The Chief Minister also directed officials to repair and properly maintain the shooting equipment. During the visit, he tested a shooting rifle himself and interacted with athletes practising at the range to understand their experiences and requirements.

He further reviewed the fire safety arrangements, including fire extinguishers and fire hydrants, and instructed officials to conduct regular mock drills and strengthen CCTV surveillance across the facility.

Chief Secretary Avinash Kumar, Sports Department Secretary Mukesh Kumar and other senior officials were present during the inspection.