The Shooting League of India (SLI), launched by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), is off to a strong start with over 400 athletes from around the world already registered for its debut season.

Shooters from countries including India, Kazakhstan, Russia, Iran, Hungary, Croatia, Azerbaijan, the UK, Australia, Grenada, Italy, Austria, Serbia, USA, Spain, Thailand, Germany, Czech Republic, Norway, San Marino, and Romania have signed up. The registration window remains open until mid-July.

NRAI president Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo welcomed the global interest, saying, “We are truly delighted by the overwhelming response and the number of registrations we have received. It’s a strong validation of our vision for the Shooting League of India. Our aim has always been to create a world-class platform that celebrates talent, promotes healthy competition, and inspires the next generation of shooters.”

Scheduled between November 20 and December 2, the inaugural season will feature mixed team events across pistol (10m, 25m), rifle (10m, 50m 3 positions), and shotgun (Trap and Skeet). A minimum of six teams will compete in the league, divided into two pools during the initial stage.

To ensure balance and competitive spirit, participants will be grouped into four tiers — Elite Champions, World Elite, National Champions, and Junior & Youth Champions.

Announced last year by NRAI, the league is expected to further elevate the sport’s profile in India, especially after the nation’s recent successes at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics.