Gagan Narang wants to start an academy in Germany

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London Olympics bronze medallist Gagan Narang plans to start a shooting academy in Germany with the help of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI).

"I have a plan to start an academy in Germany with the help of NRAI," Narang said on the sidelines of a felicitation ceremony here today.

The marksman, who clinched a bronze in 10m air rifle event, urged the NRAI to start a welfare fund for the support staff.

"I would like to urge the NRAI to start a welfare fund for the support staff as they always play an important role," he said. He donated Rs 6 lakh to the support staff who have helped him in his long journey, besides giving away Rs 10 lakh to his 'Gun for Glory' project.

While Gagan was awarded with Rs 15 lakh by the NRAI for his achievement in London, Vijay Kumar was richer by Rs 20 lakh for winning the silver medal.

Gagan was humbled at the reception he was accorded.

"Now I know the difference between a rousing reception and a pat on the back. Now I know the difference between a gold in Commonwealth Games and a bronze in Olympics.

"I am happy to leave upto the expectations. To borrow a quote for the Spiderman I would say 'with great power comes responsibility'".

During the event, the two shooters unveiled a t-shirt with their faces on it and with a message 'jeeyo, uttho, badho, jeeto' written on the backside of the product, designed by Race Sublimation Garments. Two specially designed exclusive t-shirts were gifted to them by FICCI.

Asked if life had changed after London 2012, Vijay had an interesting anecdote to share.

"When I was in London, a journalist called up to say that I have won a medal but asked me in which event," he said.

NRAI president Raninder Singh lauded the sports ministry's effort before the Games and said that they are already thinking about the roadmap for the Rio Olympics in 2016.

The NRAI's target is to send 12-15 shooters and win five medal in Rio. Other shooters present were Ronjan Sodhi, Manavjit Sandhu, Shagun Choudhury, Annuraj Singh and Sanjeev Rajput.