The National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) is looking at the upcoming ISSF World Cup as a stepping stone to prepare a strong bid for hosting a qualifying event for the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo. NRAI President Raninder Singh today expressed optimism that a smooth conduct of the year’s first World Cup, a first for the country, will go a long way in helping India make a bid for one of the Olympic quota events next year and the year after.

To be conducted at a cost of Rs. 1.25 crore, the mega-tournament will be held at the Dr. Karni Singh Shooting Range from Feb. 22 to Mar. 4.

In the upcoming tournament, a total of 50 countries will be represented by 452 athletes and among them will be reigning and former Olympic champions, world champions and continental champions lining up against India’s top guns.