Delhi CM Atishi unveils Olympic-level shooting range at Kalkaji government school
Delhi Chief Minister Atishi inaugurated a state-of-the-art 10-meter shooting range at Kalkaji No. 3 Government School on Sunday. The facility, featuring 15 lanes, an electronic target system, and advanced air pistols, aims to nurture future Olympic champions from Delhi’s schools.
“This range marks the transformation of Delhi’s schools from ‘tent schools’ with leaking roofs to centres of excellence,” a statement from the Chief Minister’s office said. Over recent years, the school has also added 25 swimming pools, 7 football grounds, and 3 hockey turfs.
Expressing optimism about the future, CM Atishi said, “This shooting range is a stepping stone for aspiring athletes. I am confident that students trained here will follow in the footsteps of Olympians like Abhinav Bindra and Manu Bhaker.”
She recalled the stark contrast between today’s modern facilities and the past conditions of government schools. “Residents shared stories of studying in ‘tent schools’ where broken walls, leaking roofs, and waterlogged classrooms made learning nearly impossible. Today, we stand here inaugurating an Olympic-standard facility,” she added, calling it a testament to Delhi’s education revolution.
EXPANDING SPORTS INFRASTRUCTURE
Highlighting the rapid expansion of sports facilities in government schools over the past decade, the CM mentioned international-standard hockey fields, Olympic-sized swimming pools, and other facilities. “Just a few kilometers away at Chirag Enclave School, students have access to an 8-lane swimming pool,” she said.
ADVANCE SHOOTING EQUIPMENT
The shooting range is equipped with top-notch facilities, including:
8 Morini CM-162E 0.177 caliber air pistols
2 Hammerli AR20 Pro rifles
2 Feinwerkbau 800 Evolution Top rifles
2 Walther LG400 rifles (various models)
8 air rifle stands, air compressors, and refill cylinders
In addition to this, 100 packets each of RWS R10 Match Rifle and Pistol pellets are available for students.
The statement highlighted the high cost of shooting equipment, with air pistols and rifles ranging from Rs 50,000 to over Rs 3 lakh. Ammunition, shooting apparel, and accessories also require significant investment. Coaching fees vary widely, from Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000 per month at local ranges, while professional academies charge upwards of Rs 25,000.
Concluding her address, CM Atishi expressed hope that students from areas like Kalkaji and Govindpuri, utilizing these world-class facilities, would bring Olympic glory to the nation in the coming years.
