Panjab University shooting range upgraded with Olympic-level electronic scoring system

Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, has taken a big step in promoting sports excellence. On Friday, PU inaugurated a world-class electronic scoring system at its indoor shooting range, located on the university campus. The facility, named after Kargil War hero Captain Vikram Batra, now has 22 lanes upgraded with this advanced system. Out of the total 41 targets available at the range, more than half now use electronic target technology.

Vice-Chancellor Renu Vig led the inauguration and highlighted the university’s commitment to supporting athletes. She said this new system is a part of the university’s mission to build modern sports infrastructure. With this setup, the scoring process has moved from the traditional manual system to a much faster and more accurate digital one. The technology enables shooters to get instant feedback on their performance, which helps them improve their skills during training and competitions.

This development makes PU the first public university in India to have an Olympic-level electronic scoring system on its own campus. The system, which cost around ₹85 lakh, is expected to boost the confidence of student shooters and help them perform better in competitive events.

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Honouring excellence and expanding sports facilities

The inauguration ceremony also turned into a moment of pride for the university. Vice-Chancellor Vig praised the achievements of PU alumni such as Manu Bhaker and Sarabjeet Singh, both well-known names in Indian shooting. Vig mentioned that Bhaker, who recently received the prestigious Khel Ratna award at the university’s annual convocation in March, is an inspiration for current students.

To support more such talent, the university plans to expand its sports facilities. The PU South Campus, which currently has only a basketball court, will soon see new sports infrastructure as part of the university’s master plan. This initiative aims to promote fitness and sports among students across all campuses.

The shooting range was originally dedicated to Captain Vikram Batra in 2018, on his death anniversary. Batra, who was an alumnus of PU, sacrificed his life during the Kargil War in 1999 while saving a fellow soldier. He was only 24 years old at the time and had stayed in Hostel Number 1 while pursuing an MA in English at PU in 1995–96. Before that, he had earned his BSc from DAV College, Sector 10, Chandigarh.

By naming the facility after Captain Batra and upgrading it with world-class equipment, PU aims to create a legacy of honour, discipline, and sports excellence that inspires future generations of shooters.