The Chief Guest of the inaugural ceremony was Shri Krishan Pal Malik, Hon’ble Minister of Zoo, Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of Uttar Pradesh. His gracious presence greatly encouraged the players and the organizing committee.
Several eminent personalities and distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Mr. Dhiraj Kumar, AIU Observer, CRO and Judge, National Rifle Association of India (NRAI); Dr. Yogesh Chandra Thakur, Professor, Sports University, Sonipat (Haryana); Mr. Manish Narwal, renowned Para-Olympian Shooter and Silver Medalist at the Paris Paralympics 2024; Colonel Saurabh Dimri, Commanding Officer, 70 UP NCC Battalion, Meerut; Dr. G. S. Ruhal, Director of Sports, CCS University, Meerut; Mr. S. Raju, ICAA India; Dr. Virendra Singh Patiyal, Dean, Physical Education, IIMT, Meerut; and Mr. Lalit Pant, Football Association, Meerut.
For the smooth and fair conduct of the championship, several NRAI Technical Officials were present, including Dr. Amanendra Mann, Mr. Abhishek Vashisth, Mr. Rajesh Parmar, Ms. Anuba Dhillon, Ms. Prajakta, Dr. Himani Singh, Mr. Johnny Chaudhary, Mr. Shiva, Mr. Vipin Dangi and Mr. Sudhir K. Singh.
The inaugural ceremony began with a plantation drive by the Chief Guest and distinguished dignitaries, symbolizing the university’s commitment to environmental conservation. The guests were warmly welcomed by Founder Dr. Atul Krishna; Prof. Dr. Shalya Raj, CEO; Hon’ble Pro-Vice Chancellors including Col. Devendra Swaroop; Director Lt. Prof. Sandeep Kumar; and the Organizing Committee of Swami Vivekanand Subharti University.
This prestigious championship has witnessed participation from approximately 1,500 shooters representing 240 universities from across India, making it one of the largest inter-university shooting competitions in the country.
Lt. Prof. Sandeep Kumar, Director and Organizing Secretary, formally welcomed all guests, officials, coaches, managers and players. In his address, Shri Krishan Pal Malik blessed the players and highly appreciated the vibrant cultural performances presented by the students during the inaugural ceremony.
On this occasion, Prof. Dr. Shalya Raj, CEO of the University, delivered an inspiring message to the players, emphasizing the values of discipline, dedication and sportsmanship. He extended his best wishes to all participants for the championship and warmly welcomed all teams, coaches and officials to the university campus.
The ceremony concluded with the gracious presence of all Deans, Heads of Faculties and faculty members of the University, marking a memorable and successful beginning of the All India Inter-University Shooting Championship 2026.
The All India Inter-University Shooting Championship (Men & Women) 2026, organized by Swami Vivekanand Subharti University, Meerut, was inaugurated with great enthusiasm and grandeur on 27 January 2026. The prestigious championship will be held from 27 January to 4 February 2026.
