Aces of the shooting range continue to bring global recognition to India, with Jaipur athlete Anantjeet Singh Naruka carving his name in history by clinching two bronze medals at the ongoing Asian Games in Japan. Competing alongside the Indian shotgun skeet contingent, he delivered a stellar performance that culminated in multiple podium finishes. Partnering with Maheshwari Chauhan, he secured his initial bronze medal, while also delivering a commendable performance in the individual category where he finished in fourth place.
A historic double-medal feat in a single event
Anantjeet Singh Naruka achieved a remarkable double during the Asian Games competitions in Japan. Joining forces with Mairaj Ahmed Khan and Bhateja Singh Gill, he contributed to the men's skeet team event to secure another bronze medal. In the individual competition, he demonstrated exceptional composure by posting a strong score of 119 out of 125 to advance into the finals. Securing two bronze medals across the men's skeet and mixed team categories marks a significant milestone in his athletic career.
Sustained international success from China to Japan
This remarkable run follows his previous success at the Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China, where he claimed an individual silver medal and a team bronze medal. By maintaining his podium streak across successive continental games from China to Japan, Anantjeet Singh Naruka has become the first athlete from Rajasthan to win medals in consecutive editions of the Asian Games. His sporting journey began at the age of 14, deeply influenced by his family background.
His father, Dalpat Singh, served as his primary mentor and personal coach, introducing him to the intricacies of skeet shooting. In 2012, he formally entered the sport, and by 2013, he was inducted into the junior Indian shooting squad by the National Rifle Association of India. During this phase, he claimed the gold medal in the men's skeet event at the national shotgun championship, establishing his potential early on.
From national championships to global arenas
Beginning with the national shotgun championships in 2015, his competitive journey has expanded to world cups, world championships, ISSF events, and the Paris Olympics. Standing among the premier skeet marksmen in the country, he previously secured India's first-ever skeet medal at the Asian Games during the 2023 edition with a silver finish. His trophy cabinet also features a gold medal at the 2025 Asian Shooting Championship and a bronze at the ISSF World Cup final.
Born on July 1, 1998, in Jaipur, Rajasthan, he belongs to the former royal family of Uniara located in the Tonk district of the state. Growing up in a royal Rajput household meant firearms were a familiar part of his environment from childhood. Now 28 years old, his early education took place at Jayshree Periwal International School in Jaipur, followed by higher education at St. Xavier's College. Before focusing entirely on shooting, he actively participated in multiple sports including athletics, cricket, golf, squash, and table tennis.
Looking ahead to the Los Angeles Olympics
With his recent triumphs in Asia secured, Anantjeet Singh Naruka has turned his focus firmly toward preparations for the Los Angeles Olympics. Having already secured qualification, his ultimate ambition is to win a gold medal on the global stage. Although he finished fourth in the mixed skeet event at the Paris Olympics after narrowly losing the bronze medal match by a single point, he continues to train with unwavering dedication for the upcoming Olympic cycle.
