General Dhiraj Seth Honors Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda for Historic Trap Shooting Gold at ISSF World Cup

General Dhiraj Seth, the Chief of the Army Staff, honored Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda from the Army Marksmanship Unit for her groundbreaking achievement as the first Indian woman to secure an individual gold medal in the women's trap event at an International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup.

Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda achieved this milestone at the ISSF Shotgun World Cup in Lonato, Italy, where she demonstrated exceptional composure and skill against some of the top trap shooters globally.

During the ceremony, General Dhiraj Seth lauded the Army shooter for her remarkable talent and dedication. He termed her victory a significant accomplishment for both the Indian Army and the Nation, underscoring the discipline and perseverance required to excel in international shooting competitions.

General Seth congratulated Naib Subedar Dhanda for her ability to stay focused under pressure, delivering a performance that elevated India to the pinnacle of the international stage.

The Army Chief also acknowledged her inspiring journey, noting that her success reflects the Indian Army's continuous efforts to identify, train, and support talented athletes.

The Indian Army hopes her achievement will inspire more young athletes, especially women in uniform, to strive for excellence and represent India in major international competitions.

The event also highlighted the crucial role of the Army Marksmanship Unit in nurturing shooters who can compete against the world's best.

Neeru Dhanda excelled in the women's trap competition, leading from the qualification stage. She achieved a top qualification score of 121 hits out of 125 targets, thus securing her place in the final round comprising eight shooters.

Beginning with three flawless series, she hit all 75 targets, maintaining her lead in a field of elite shooters from various prominent countries.

In the final round, consisting of 30 targets, Neeru demonstrated exceptional control and precision, missing only three targets to win with a score of 27 out of 30.

France's former world champion Carole Cormenier won the silver medal with 25 hits, and Italy's Erica Sessa took the bronze.

Neeru maintained her lead from the early stages of the final, her calm under pressure securing her first individual ISSF World Cup title.

This victory makes the 26-year-old the first Indian woman to achieve an individual gold in trap shooting at an ISSF World Cup.

Her win ends a 16-year wait for India for an individual women's trap medal at this level, following Seema Tomar’s silver in 2010.

The Lonato gold marks a significant achievement in Neeru’s career. She entered the event as the reigning Asian champion, having clinched gold in the women's trap at the Asian Shooting Championships in 2025 in Shymkent, Kazakhstan.

She is also the current national champion and had earlier won a mixed-team bronze at an ISSF World Cup event in Almaty.

Originating from Haryana's Jind district, Neeru Dhanda joined the Corps of Military Police after the Indian Army began recruiting women in ranks.

Her shooting potential was honed at the Army Marksmanship Unit, within the Infantry School in Mhow, Madhya Pradesh.

The Army Marksmanship Unit, part of the Indian Army’s Mission Olympics program, trains military personnel, para-athletes, and selected civilians for national and international contests.

By providing specialized coaching, sports science support, and rigorous training, the unit has produced many successful shooters for India.

Neeru’s transformation from a soldier in the Corps of Military Police to an Asian champion and ISSF World Cup gold medallist exemplifies the growing opportunities for women in the Indian Army.

Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda’s triumph is a pivotal moment for the sporting achievements of the Indian Army.

It showcases the effectiveness of the Army's investment in specialized sports training and athlete development.

This victory provides India a significant international success leading up to major competitions like the Asian Games.

Trap shooting, one of the most demanding shotgun disciplines, tests competitors with clay targets launched swiftly at varying angles and speeds, requiring quick reflexes, hand-eye coordination, mental resilience, and split-second decision-making.

Neeru's score of 27 out of 30 in the final reflects her technical skill and ability to handle the intense psychological pressure of international contests.

General Dhiraj Seth’s recognition extends beyond the medal, acknowledging the years of discipline, training, and sacrifices leading to this historic feat.

The Army Chief remarked that Neeru Dhanda's journey reflects the dedication, perseverance, and excellence associated with the Indian Army.

Her victory is expected to inspire future soldiers and civilian athletes to pursue competitive shooting and other Olympic sports.

Naib Subedar Neeru Dhanda’s top podium finish in Lonato sets a new standard for Indian women in shotgun shooting, adding another distinguished chapter to the Indian Army's sporting legacy.

Her accomplishment reaffirms that with institutional backing, professional training, and determination, Indian athletes can compete successfully on the world stage against the strongest sporting nations.