Thirteen national shooters from Bhutan have begun a two-week high-performance training camp in Siliguri, West Bengal, under the India–Bhutan cooperation framework. The programme, scheduled from January 7 to 20 at Olympian Jitu Rai’s Shooting Academy, is being seen as a strategic investment in sporting excellence, aimed at improving Bhutan’s competitive standing at the international level. The initiative is funded through the Indo-Bhutan Partnership Programme, reinforcing New Delhi’s Neighbourhood First policy, which extends support across infrastructure, education, health, and sports.
The Indian Embassy in Bhutan said the collaboration reflects strong bilateral engagement in youth and sports development. The Bhutan Shooting Federation confirmed that five rifle shooters, eight pistol shooters, and two coaches are attending the camp to enhance technical skills, competition preparedness, and global exposure. The Federation also expressed gratitude to the Government of India for continued developmental support.
The camp is expected to significantly strengthen Bhutan’s talent pipeline while deepening long-term sporting cooperation between the two nations.