New Delhi: Odisha MLA Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo has been elected as the president of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI). The election, held at the Constitution Club of India, saw Singh Deo triumph over his rival VK Dhall with a decisive 36-21 vote margin.
Kalikesh Singh Deo, a former Member of Parliament from Odisha, has been serving as the interim head of the NRAI since last year following the resignation of Raninder Singh. Singh stepped down in compliance with the National Sports Code, which limits the tenure of heads of national sports federations to 12 years.
During his tenure as the interim president, Singh Deo oversaw significant achievements, including India’s success at the Paris Olympics, where the country secured three bronze medals in shooting. His leadership has been instrumental in revitalizing the NRAI and promoting shooting sports across the nation.
Expressing his gratitude, Singh Deo stated, “I am honored to be elected as the president of the NRAI. My focus will be on further developing the sport of shooting in India and ensuring that our athletes receive the best possible support and training.”
