Vijayi Bharat Foundation’s Rakesh Nidagundi eyes Gold for India at the Asian Para Games Debut

Ahmedabad, 17th October 2026: Vijayi Bharat Foundation’s (VBF) para shooter Rakesh Nidagundi is set to make his Asian Para Games debut in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, where he will represent India in the Men’s R1 10m Air Rifle Standing (SH1) event. The 38-year-old recently won a silver medal as part of India’s R1 team at the Changwon 2026 World Shooting Para Sport (WSPS) World Championships.

Hailing from Hubballi, Karnataka, Rakesh’s journey into shooting began unexpectedly in 2017, when he was tasked with designing promotional material for a shooting academy. Though his initial pursuit was graphic design, the experience introduced him to a sport that would eventually shape his career. After returning to shooting following the COVID-19 lockdown, he began competing in 2021. Strong performances at competitions, including the Khelo India Games, have since propelled his progression from a newcomer to the sport to the international stage.

The silver medal at Changwon was a significant achievement for Indian para shooting, with India securing its first-ever team medals in rifle at the Para Shooting World Championships. Rakesh, who trains at VBF’s High-Performance Centre in Ahmedabad under coach Jeevan Lal Rai, will now look to build on that performance at the Asian Para Games.

Elated at the opportunity to represent India on the international stage, Rakesh Nidagundi said, “Representing India at the Asian Para Games for the first time is a defining moment in my sporting journey. Wearing the national colours comes with immense pride and responsibility, and I am determined to give my best in every round. The journey to this stage has demanded discipline, perseverance and constant improvement, and the guidance of Jeevan Lal Rai sir, along with VBF’s support, has been instrumental in helping me get here.

As I prepare to compete in Japan, my focus is on trusting my training and staying composed under pressure to compete at the highest level. I will be up against some of the best athletes in Asia, and my goal is to challenge for gold and bring glory to the country. This is an opportunity I value deeply, and I hope to do justice to the hard work and faith of everyone who has supported me along the way.”

Reflecting on Rakesh’s preparations, Coach Jeevan Lal Rai said, “Rakesh has demonstrated strong commitment to his training and made steady progress as an athlete. His silver medal at the World Championships has given him valuable international exposure and a strong foundation ahead of the Asian Para Games. Our preparations have focused on sharpening his technique, building consistency and strengthening his ability to perform under pressure. The competition in Japan will be demanding, but Rakesh has the ability to challenge strong opponents. The priority will be to trust his preparation, execute his plans with precision and remain composed when it matters most.”

Rakesh will compete on 19th October 2026 at the Aichi Prefectural General Shooting Gallery, Japan. His Men’s R1 10m Air Rifle Standing (SH1) event is scheduled as follows:

Preliminary Round: 06:30 AM – 07:45 AM
Final: 08:40 AM – 09:25 AM

All timings are as per Indian Standard Time and based on the schedule shared for the Games.