Kanak Budhwar Shines: Gold in 10m Air Pistol at ISSF Junior World Cup

Seventeen-year-old Indian shooter Kanak Budhwar clinched the gold medal in the women’s 10-metre air pistol event at the ISSF Junior World Cup 2025 held in Suhl, Germany. Outperforming Moldova’s Anna Dulce, the reigning European champion and two-time Olympian, Kanak secured the title with a final score of 239.0, demonstrating exceptional composure and skill on the international stage.

Why in News?

This achievement has drawn national and international attention as Kanak Budhwar not only defeated a highly decorated opponent but also exemplified India’s rising prowess in shooting sports. The win is also significant as it marks a turning point in Kanak’s promising shooting career, paving the way for future Olympic ambitions.

Key Highlights

• Event: ISSF Junior World Cup 2025, Suhl, Germany.
• Achievement: Gold medal in women’s 10m air pistol.
• Score: 239.0 points.
• Runner-up: Anna Dulce (Moldova).
• Bronze: Chen Yen-Ching (Chinese Taipei).

Background

• Kanak Budhwar began her shooting journey five years ago at Abhinandan Shooting Academy in Rohtak under coach Sandeep Nehra.
• Initially advised to train in pistol instead of rifle shooting due to her underweight condition (32 kg).
• Her father, Sudhir Singh Budhwar, introduced her to the sport after trying shooting in Thailand.

Early Career

• First national medal: Silver in 10m air pistol (Sub-Youth category).

Major competitions

• Asian Junior Championships (2023) – Two team medals.
• Junior World Championships (2024, Lima) – Silver in individual event.

Technical Challenges Overcome

• Shoulder alignment issue: Left shoulder leaning forward caused pistol jerks.
• Small hand grip: Required custom adjustments.
• Training system used: SCATT system for precision analysis and correction.

Performance in the Final

• Started in third place, rose to the top in elimination series.
• Maintained composure under unfamiliar conditions, outperforming even stronger qualification shooters.
• Fellow Indian shooter Prachi finished fifth.

Expert Commentary

• Coach Sandeep Nehra: Highlights her posture, grip improvement, and mental strength.
• National Coach Sonia Rai: Praised her ability to adapt to unfamiliar shooting range designs in Germany.
• Focus on improving shot timing and reducing qualification stress.

Broader Significance

• Boost to India’s junior shooting ambitions.
• Encouragement for young athletes facing early challenges.
• Reinforces the importance of proper coaching and family support in sports careers.