Hyderabad: Mohammed Ali Hussain, who has just turned 14, qualified as a nationally renowned shooting athlete in his very first attempt, becoming the youngest shooter from Telangana to achieve this distinction.
He competed in the 50-metre Rifle Prone event under the Junior and Civilian categories, earning national recognition at one of India’s toughest shooting championships.
Most competitive shooting event in country
The event was part of the 68th National Rifle Shooting Championship of India 2025, held in Bhopal.
It was one of the largest and most competitive shooting events in the country, with over 6,000 participants. Shooters included personnel from the Indian Army, Navy, Air Force, IAS, IPS (Civil Services), various Central and State government departments and civilian athletes, ranging in age up to 75 years.
The championship tested precision, discipline and consistency at the highest national level.
Team from Telangana earns national recognition
Ali’s success was a team effort, said his father, Asif Sohail.
Along with Meraj, Huzaifa, and Mustafa, he trained under the mentorship of Imran (Armourer and Coach) and Omar, a former national-level shooter and gold medallist.
Notably, the entire team qualified and earned national recognition.
Ali’s journey from community service to national glory
Currently a Class 8 student, Ali has successfully balanced academics, Hifz studies and social responsibility from a young age.
He has actively participated in community service, including feeding people daily and teaching children in slum areas. His upbringing has instilled strong values of discipline, focus, empathy and perseverance, clearly reflected in his calm and mature approach to competition—shaped by the guidance and values imparted by his father and mother.
“In a very short time and with limited practice, Ali has achieved this milestone. He has the potential to become a future wonder for India on the international shooting stage,” said Sandeep, Coach at the Sports Authority of Telangana (SATS).