Payal Nag Becomes World’s First Quadruple Amputee Archer Champion

In a remarkable story of resilience and determination, Payal Nag, an 18-year-old archer from Odisha, has scripted history by becoming the world’s first quadruple amputee to win an international archery gold medal. Her triumph at the World Para Archery Series Final in Bangkok marks a defining moment not only in Indian para sports but also in global sporting history.

From Tragedy to Transformation

Born in Balangir district to a daily-wage labourer, Payal Nag’s life took a devastating turn at the age of eight when an electrocution accident resulted in the loss of all four limbs. Following the incident, she spent time in an orphanage, where she gradually rebuilt her life with extraordinary courage. A turning point came when a video of her painting using her mouth went viral, drawing attention to her remarkable adaptability and determination.

Mentorship and Entry into Archery

Her journey into archery began when coach Kuldeep Kumar Vedwan discovered her potential and brought her to the Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Archery Academy in Katra. Despite limited resources, Vedwan mentored her using innovative and customised training methods. Under his guidance, Payal transformed her limitations into strengths, developing the skills required to compete at the highest level.

Unique Technique and Competitive Rise

Unlike other para archers, Payal devised a distinctive shooting method using a specially designed prosthetic arm. She stabilises the bow with this aid while drawing the string using her shoulder and mouth, combined with a trigger mechanism. This innovative technique enabled her rapid rise in the sport, making her the first athlete with such a condition to compete internationally in archery.

Important Facts for Exams

• Payal Nag is the world’s first quadruple amputee archer to win international gold.
• She won gold at the 2026 World Para Archery Series Final in Bangkok.
• Para archery is governed globally by World Archery Federation.
• Khelo India Para Games promote grassroots para sports in India.

Historic Victory and Future Prospects

On April 4, 2026, Payal clinched gold in her debut senior international event, defeating her idol Sheetal Devi with a score of 139–136. This victory builds on her earlier successes at national competitions and signals her emergence as a strong contender for future global events, including the Paralympics. Her journey stands as a powerful testament to human willpower, redefining the boundaries of possibility in sport.