New Delhi, August 25: Jitu Rai is a prominent name in the Indian shooting sports arena. Serving in the Indian Army, he has elevated India’s status on the global stage by winning gold medals in international competitions.
Born on August 26, 1987, in Sankhu Sawa, Nepal, Jitu’s father was a member of the Gorkha Rifles regiment in the Indian Army. His father fought in the 1971 war against Pakistan. Jitu spent his childhood in Nepal, far removed from the world of shooting, growing up amidst fields and livestock.
Tragedy struck when Jitu lost his father at just 19 years old. Inspired by his father’s legacy, he aspired to join the Army. After registering at an Army camp, he was selected and soon developed an interest in shooting. He began participating in international competitions in 2013.
Jitu gained significant recognition in 2014, winning gold medals at the World Cup, Commonwealth Games, and Asian Games. This success established him as a key figure in Indian shooting.
However, his dream of winning a medal at the Rio 2016 Olympics was dashed when he finished eighth in the finals. Despite this setback, he remained undeterred and continued to achieve success on international platforms.
Specializing in the 10-meter air pistol and 50-meter pistol events, Jitu has notable achievements, including a gold medal in the mixed team event at the 2017 World Cup in New Delhi and another gold in the 10-meter air pistol event at the 2014 World Cup in Maribor. He also secured gold in the 50-meter pistol event at the 2014 Asian Games.
His accolades include gold medals in the 50-meter pistol event at the 2014 Commonwealth Games and in the 10-meter air pistol event at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
For his exceptional contributions to shooting, the Government of India honored him with the Arjuna Award in 2015, the Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna Award in 2016, and the Padma Shri in 2020.
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