Shooting skill is essential for soldiers: COAS Asim Munir

The 44th Pakistan Army Rifle Association (PARA) competition concluded on Thursday with Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir serving as the chief guest. 

The event saw the participation of 2,000 military personnel from various units, showcasing their exceptional shooting skills.

The competition, held from October 14 to November 28, culminated with a grand closing ceremony at the Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU) in Jhelum. 

The event was attended by personnel from the Pakistan Army, Navy, Air Force, civil armed forces, including Punjab and Sindh Rangers and civilian participants, representing teams from Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, and the Federal Rifle Association.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), General Asim Munir was welcomed by Corps Commander Rawalpindi upon his arrival. 

The ceremony was also graced by Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, who joined the COAS in presenting trophies and medals to the winners and runners-up of various categories.

During his address, General Asim Munir interacted with participants and commended the high standard of marksmanship displayed. He emphasised that shooting skill is essential for a professional soldier and “must remain at the heart of basic military training objectives”.

The Pakistan Army clinched the CJCSC, COAS, and CNS matches.

FTR Team Trophy was secured by the Pakistan Army under the leadership of Lieutenant General Ahsan Gulrez.

Naik Waseem Ahmed Khan of the Pakistan Army. won the President’s Cup National Challenge Match Trophy. 

Prime Minister’s Skills at Arms Big Bore National Challenge was dominated by the Pakistan Air Force.

First prize of Para Firing Matches was awarded to the Azad Kashmir Regiment (infantry squad).

Master at Arms Trophy was warded to Sepoy Aftab Ahmed of the Punjab Regiment, the highest honor in military shooting.

Best Shot Match Trophies Group 2 was won by Lance Dafadar Muhammad Imran of the Cavalry, while Group 3 was clinched by Havaldar Fateh Ullah Khan of the EME Battalion.

The Pakistan Army emerged as the overall champion of the PARA competition