Delhi: Former Indian shooter and veteran sports administrator Randhir Singh passed away on Wednesday at the age of 79, leaving behind a remarkable legacy in Indian and Asian sports. Randhir Singh created history by becoming India’s first-ever Asian Games gold medallist in shooting when he won the individual trap event at the 1978 Asian Games 1978. He also represented India in five consecutive Olympic Games from 1968 to 1984, establishing himself as one of the country’s most consistent shooters. Confirming the news, National Rifle Association of India secretary Rajiv Bhatia expressed deep sorrow over the veteran sportsman’s demise. He described Randhir Singh as a distinguished Olympian, Arjuna Awardee and one of the most respected sports administrators associated with Indian, Asian and international sports bodies.
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Apart from his achievements in shooting, Randhir Singh played a major role in sports administration. He became the first Indian to be elected president of the Olympic Council of Asia in 2024. He had earlier served as Secretary General of the Indian Olympic Association for 25 years from 1987 to 2012. Randhir Singh was also a member of the International Olympic Committee between 2001 and 2014 before becoming an honorary member. He received the prestigious Arjuna Award in 1979 for his contribution to Indian shooting. His tenure as OCA president ended prematurely earlier this year after his health deteriorated. He belonged to a prominent sporting family, with his father Bhalindra Singh also serving in major Olympic and Indian sports administrative roles.
