Shooting Coach Jaspal Rana Passes Away At 49, PM Modi Expresses Grief
Renowned Indian shooting coach and former Asian Games gold medallist Jaspal Rana has passed away. He was 49.
According to National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) president Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, Rana breathed his last at a Delhi hospital last night. Rana recently underwent a medical procedure after falling ill during the Indian contingent’s return flight from the ISSF World Cup in Munich, Germany. Upon landing in New Delhi, he was immediately hospitalised and underwent a procedure to have a stent fixed.
He was serving as the high-performance coach for Indian pistol shooters. He mentored Manu Bhaker and helped her secure a historic double bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed grief over the passing of Jaspal Rana. In a social media post, the Prime Minister said that Rana brought immense glory to the nation through his extraordinary achievements in shooting. He added that equally remarkable was his contribution as a mentor, shaping and guiding young athletes with great dedication. Mr Modi said Rana’s unwavering commitment to excellence, discipline, and service to the sporting world earned him immense admiration. He added that his death is a profound loss to Indian sports and conveyed his condolences to the bereaved family, friends, and the sporting fraternity.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also condoled the demise of Jaspal Rana, saying he is extremely grief-stricken. In a social media post, he said Rana was not only an exceptional athlete and coach but also an extremely affable, simple, and kind-hearted person. The Defence Minister added that renowned coaches have played a highly influential role in popularising shooting as a sport in India. He termed Rana’s passing a great loss to Indian sports and prayed that the bereaved family finds the strength to bear the loss.
