Jaspal Rana, India’s renowned shooting coach and Asian Games gold medalist, passes away at the age of 49

NEW DELHI: Indian shooting lost one of its most revered figures on Thursday when noted coach and former Asian Games gold medalist Jaspal Rana passed away at the age of 49.According to National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) president Kalikesh Narayan Singh Deo, Rana breathed his last at a hospital in Delhi on Thursday evening.Rana, who served as the high-performance coach of India’s pistol shooters, recently fell ill while returning from the ISSF World Cup in Munich, Germany, where the Indian contingent finished with an impressive haul of four medals, including two gold and two silver.According to NRAI sources, Rana did not feel well during the flight back to Delhi and was taken directly to the hospital after arrival. Medical tests revealed the need for a stent, but the decorated marksman and coach could not recover.His death marks the end of an era in Indian shooting, a sport he influenced as a champion and mentor to generations of stars.Prime Minister Narendra Modi condoled Rana’s death and said his demise was a deep loss to the world of Indian sports.After a glittering competitive career that included an Asian Games gold medal and numerous international successes, Rana devoted himself to nurturing young talent. Appointed Junior National Pistol Coach in 2012, he played a key role in shaping some of India’s biggest shooting stars, including Saurabh Chaudhary, Anish Bhanwal and Chinki Yadav.Rana’s impact went far beyond the junior ranks. He was instrumental in the development of Manu Bhaker, who made history with two bronze medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics. His methods, which aimed to restore the pressure and intensity of Olympic competition, won widespread admiration.In February 2025, the NRAI named him a High Performance Coach for the 25m Pistol event, recognizing his immense contribution to the sport and his ability to consistently produce top performers.For his contribution to Indian shooting, the government honored Rana with the prestigious Dronacharya Award in 2020.From a master shooter to one of the best coaches in the country, Jaspal Rana leaves behind a rich legacy that has transformed Indian shooting and inspired a generation of athletes. His departure is an irreplaceable loss to Indian sports.

Jaspal Rana cause of death: What happened to the former Asian Games gold medalist?

Rana, who served as the high-performance coach of India’s pistol shooters, recently fell ill during the Indian contingent’s return from the ISSF World Championships in Munich, Germany. After landing in New Delhi, he was immediately hospitalized and underwent a procedure to remove the heart block. Despite initial reports suggesting his condition was stable, it deteriorated in the following days, according to PTI.