Vapi Girl Samartha Mane Achieves National Recognition at 68th NSCC Rifle Shooting Championship
The industrial city of Vapi has found a new reason to celebrate as one of its young residents has made a significant mark on the national sports map. Samartha Satyam Mane, a dedicated student of Ashadham School in Vapi, showcased exceptional talent and precision at the 68th National 10m Air Rifle Shooting Championship held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The prestigious event, which took place from December 11 to December 31, 2025, brought together the finest marksmen and women from across the country. Amidst stiff competition from hundreds of participants representing various states and sports boards, Samartha’s performance stood out, earning her accolades and a formal recognition that few young athletes achieve so early in their sporting careers.
Samartha’s journey to the national stage is a testament to consistent hard work and expert mentorship. She has been undergoing rigorous training at the Lakshya Air Rifle Shooting Range in Vapi under the watchful eyes of her coach, Ankit M. Patel. Her disciplined routine and focus during the practice sessions bore fruit during the national championship, where she competed in the Sub-Youth category. By demonstrating remarkable composure and technical skill during the high-pressure rounds in Bhopal, Samartha managed to secure a score that not only placed her among the top performers but also officially earned her the title of a Renowned Shooter. This title is a major milestone in the Indian shooting circuit, marking the transition from a local competitor to a nationally recognized athlete.
The achievement has sparked a wave of joy throughout the Vapi region. Upon the announcement of her success, the President of the Lakshya Rifle Club, along with coach Ankit Patel and all members of the club, extended their heartfelt congratulations. The academic community at Ashadham School also joined in the celebration, with the Principal and the teaching staff praising Samartha for balancing her rigorous sports schedule with her studies. Her parents expressed immense pride in their daughter’s dedication, noting that her passion for rifle shooting has finally received the national platform it deserved. For Samartha, representing the state of Gujarat and bringing glory to Vapi at a national forum like the 68th NSCC is a dream come true.
Attaining the status of a Renowned Shooter carries significant advantages that will propel Samartha’s career to the next level. One of the most practical benefits of this recognition is the legal authorization to purchase and possess a professional-grade air rifle. In the world of competitive shooting, having personal equipment tailored to a shooter’s specific needs is crucial for reaching international standards. Furthermore, this status makes her eligible for various sports quotas in higher education and government job opportunities in the future. It also opens doors to specialized training camps and advanced coaching programs sponsored by national sports bodies, ensuring that her talent is nurtured for even bigger stages like the Asian Games or the Olympics.
The pathway for a shooter in India is governed by the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI), and Samartha’s qualification through the 68th NSCC is a vital first step. By meeting the NRAI qualification criteria, she is now eligible to participate in upcoming National Selection Trials, Pre-National events, and other major tournaments organized by the federation. Success in these trials allows shooters to gain national ranking points. For athletes like Samartha, who have already earned the Renowned Shooter label, the next logical step is to aim for a spot in the Sports Authority of India (SAI) or the Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) camps. These camps provide the elite environment necessary to transition from national competitions to international ISSF Junior World Cups and World Championships.
Samartha’s success is not just a personal victory but also an inspiration for the budding sporting talent in South Gujarat. Rifle shooting is a sport that requires immense mental strength, patience, and physical stability. Her rise from a local shooting range in Vapi to the national arena in Bhopal serves as a blueprint for other youngsters in the region who wish to pursue unconventional sports. The coaching staff at Lakshya Rifle Club believes that Samartha has the potential to represent India on global platforms and potentially secure medals for the country in the coming years. Her technical proficiency and ability to remain calm under pressure are qualities that are highly valued in the world of professional shooting.
As Samartha returns to Vapi with her new national identity, her focus remains unshaken. She intends to continue her practice with even greater intensity to prepare for the selection trials scheduled for the next season. The community of Vapi continues to shower her with blessings, hoping that this young girl will one day hit the bullseye on an Olympic target. Her story is a shining example of how local talent, when backed by the right coaching and family support, can breach national boundaries and achieve excellence. The 68th NSCC in Bhopal will always be remembered as the event where Vapi’s Samantha Mane began her journey toward becoming a sporting icon for the nation.
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