Indian shooters have stamped their class at the ongoing Asian Games 2026 in Japan, with Delhi University post-graduate student Aashima Ahlawat delivering a stellar display to capture a silver medal. Competing in the trap team shooting event, Aashima joined forces with compatriots Manisha Keer and Neeru Dhanda to finish second on the podium. The collective precision and discipline shown by the three shooters ensured India secured another prestigious shooting honour at the continental tournament.
Celebrations Across Campus and Praise from Vice Chancellor
Aashima is currently pursuing her MA at the Delhi School of Economics. Following her international medal win, an atmosphere of joy spread across the Delhi University campus. Extending his congratulations to the young shooter, DU Vice Chancellor Prof. Yogesh Singh observed that achievements of this calibre bring international glory to the country while elevating the institution's standing. He noted that such milestones serve as a tremendous source of inspiration for other students and future sporting talent aiming for high performance.
Proven Track Record in University Tournaments
Her triumph in Japan follows consistent excellence at the university circuit. In April 2026, during the All India Inter-University Shooting (Women) Tournament staged at GNDU in Amritsar, Aashima was an integral part of the Delhi University squad that claimed the gold medal in the trap event. Demonstrating her technical capability alongside her team contributions, she had also walked away with an individual silver medal at the very same championship.
Roots in Kharkara and the Spark from 2018
Born on September 27, 2003, Aashima hails from Kharkara village in the Rohtak district of Haryana. Her sporting aspirations were first triggered during the 2018 Commonwealth Games, where India's shooting contingent delivered memorable displays. Witnessing the achievements of pistol shooters Manu Bhaker and Heena Sidhu ignited a strong ambition within her to take up the sport seriously and represent the country.
The 98 Percent Academic Condition and Early Obstacles
Her sporting dreams required significant perseverance on the home front. Her mother, Sumitra Ahlawat, was keen that sporting pursuits did not compromise academic progress. She established a demanding prerequisite: Aashima would receive permission to pursue shooting only if she secured a 98 percent score in her Class 12 board examinations. Rising to the challenge, Aashima earned an impressive 98.6 percent, gaining admission to Lady Shri Ram College.
While her shooting journey initially began with the 10-metre air pistol category, advice from former Indian shooter Ronjan Sodhi prompted her to switch to shotgun trap shooting. To support her intensive training regime, her mother relocated from Rohtak to Delhi. The transition was financially and logistically demanding, taking approximately eight months just to procure her first shotgun and gather adequate ammunition.
