Delhi CM Atishi Inaugurates State-of-the-Art Shooting Range at Kalkaji No. 3 School
New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Atishi inaugurated a cutting-edge 10-meter shooting range at Kalkaji No. 3 School on Sunday. This world-class facility, featuring 15 lanes, an electronic target system, and top-of-the-line air pistols, is a symbol of the ongoing transformation in the city's education system. The CM’s office emphasized that this facility marks a significant leap from the ‘tent schools’ of the past, which were plagued by leaking roofs and other infrastructure issues.
A Remarkable Transformation in Education and Sports Facilities
Atishi took the opportunity to highlight the extensive improvements that Delhi’s government schools have undergone over the past decade. "This is the story of Delhi’s educational revolution. From tent schools with leaky roofs to world-class sports facilities and Olympic-style infrastructure, the transformation is clear for everyone to see," said the Chief Minister.
The newly inaugurated shooting range is equipped with 8 Morini CM-162E air pistols, a range of high-quality rifles, and a state-of-the-art air compression system. Students will have access to the same level of equipment that professional athletes use in competitions, ensuring they receive top-tier training in a world-class environment.
Future Olympians in the Making
CM Atishi expressed her belief that the students trained at these facilities will one day bring Olympic medals to India. "I believe that in the years to come, children from our neighborhoods, like Kalkaji and Govindpuri, who train in these state-of-the-art facilities, will go on to become Olympic medalists," she said. She also noted the significant expansion of sports infrastructure in Delhi, with the introduction of Olympic-sized swimming pools, artificial turf hockey fields, and numerous other top-tier sports facilities.
Cutting-Edge Equipment and Infrastructure
The shooting range is equipped with a variety of world-class equipment, including:
- 8 Morini CM-162E air pistols (0.177 caliber)
- 8 air rifle stands and 2 Hammerli AR20 Pro rifles
- Air cylinders and Bauer Junior II compressor for refills
Additionally, the range boasts a comprehensive collection of shooting equipment, including air pellets, shooting jackets, gloves, and professional-grade optics. The investment in this infrastructure has made the Kalkaji No. 3 School one of the premier training centers for shooting sports in the country.
Cost of Equipment and Training
The cost of shooting equipment varies, with air rifles and pistols ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 2,00,000. Professional-grade firearms can cost upwards of Rs 3,00,000, while competition-level firearms may exceed Rs 10,00,000. Ammunition costs range from Rs 500 to Rs 2,000 per tin for air pellets, while shooting accessories like jackets, shoes, and eyewear can cost anywhere from Rs 10,000 to Rs 50,000.
For those looking to train, coaching fees at local shooting ranges range between Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000 per month. Professional academies charge up to Rs 25,000 for monthly training. Range fees can also vary, with some locations charging between Rs 100 to Rs 1,000 per session, and specialized camps ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,50,000.
A Glimpse Into the Future
This launch marks a pivotal moment in Delhi's education and sports landscape. With improved infrastructure and high-quality training facilities, Delhi’s government schools are poised to nurture the next generation of athletes. As CM Atishi remarked, "I have no doubt that the future Abhinav Bindras and Manu Bhakers will come from these very schools."
The Kalkaji No. 3 School’s new shooting range and its associated sports facilities reflect a broader commitment by the Delhi government to provide top-tier education and sporting opportunities for students across the city.
