At the ISSF World Championships, Niraj Kumar earned a bronze medal in the men’s 50 metre rifle three positions event, adding to India's growing presence in international shooting sports. This achievement marks India’s second Olympic quota from the championships, with Jaypal Malvia having previously won silver in the men’s 10 metre air pistol event. Niraj’s success continues a strong tradition in this event, following Swapnil Kusale's historic bronze medal at the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, where he became the first Indian to win an Olympic medal in the men’s 50 metre rifle three positions.
Niraj’s consistent performance extends beyond this, having competed at the 2026 Asian Shooting Championships in New Delhi, where he finished runner-up to Aishwary Pratap Singh Tomar in the same discipline. Earlier that year, Neeraj also won a silver medal in the men’s 50 metre rifle three positions team event at the Asian Games in Achinagoya.
Born on 21 January 2000, Niraj represents the Indian Navy in both national and international competitions. His dedication and achievements highlight the rising standards of Indian shooting on the global stage and promise a bright future for the sport as the 2028 Olympics approach.
Niraj’s success not only adds to India’s Olympic prospects but also inspires upcoming shooters who aim to make their mark in this precise and challenging sport.