SRINAGAR: President Droupadi Murmu, on Tuesday conferred the Arjuna Award upon Sheetal Devi in recognition of her achievements in Para Archery. The acknowledgement is based on Devi’s performance in various international competitions during 2023.
President Droupadi Murmu confers Arjuna Award, 2023 on Ms Sheetal Devi for her achievements in Para Archery. She has won:
● Three gold medals and one silver medal in the 4th Para Asian Games held in Hangzhou, China in 2023.
● One silver medal in the World Para Archery… pic.twitter.com/MYrmcwp5wp— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 9, 2024
The para archer secured three gold medals and one silver medal at the 4th Para Asian Games in Hangzhou, China. Her display of skill and determination marked a significant contribution to her success on the global stage.
In addition, Ms Sheetal Devi secured a silver medal at the World Para Archery Championship in Pilsen, Czech Republic. Her consistency and dedication to the sport have earned her acclaim, making her a deserving recipient of the Arjuna Award.
Armless archer Sheetal Devi, 16, hailing from Loidhar village in Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, has garnered attention for her exceptional performance in the Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou, China. Born with Phocomelia, a disorder causing under-developed limbs, Sheetal initiated her training in archery merely two years ago.
Her journey from a rural upbringing to becoming a notable para-athlete unfolded during her childhood, spent climbing trees for recreation in her native village. This unconventional pastime inadvertently contributed to strengthening her upper body, enhancing her athleticism, and catching the eye of scouts during a local event organised by the Indian Army in 2021.
Despite facing the challenges posed by Phocomelia, which left her without arms, Sheetal’s dedication to archery and her innate skills have become evident on the international stage.
