Sheetal Devi makes history: First Indian para-archer to join able-bodied international team

Para-archer Sheetal Devi has created history by becoming the first Indian para-athlete selected for an able-bodied international competition. The 18-year-old world champion from Jammu and Kashmir will represent India in the compound section at the Asia Cup 2025 Stage 3, to be held in Jeddah from December 9 to 16. Her remarkable selection marks a groundbreaking moment in Indian sports, symbolising inclusivity and excellence beyond physical barriers.

Historic Selection for the Asia Cup 2025

Sheetal Devi earned her place in the 16-member Indian recurve and compound archery squad following impressive performances at the national trials held at the Sports Authority of India Centre in Sonepat. Competing against 60 able-bodied female archers, she scored 703 points in the qualification rounds, registering 352 and 351 points in two sessions. Her consistency and technical mastery secured her spot in India’s team for the Asia Cup, a tournament that usually features junior-level competitors.

Breaking Barriers in Indian Para Sports

Born with phocomelia, a rare congenital condition that left her without arms, Sheetal competes using her feet and shoulders — a technique perfected through rigorous training and unyielding determination. Her achievement follows a long tradition of Indian para-athletes excelling nationally, but she becomes the first to represent the country in an international event among able-bodied competitors. Other para-athletes such as Praveen Kumar, Sumit Antil, and Manish Narwal have previously participated in national able-bodied competitions, but none reached this level of international recognition.

Inspiration and Determination Behind Success

The young champion attributes her inspiration to Turkiye’s para and able-bodied archer Oznur Cure Girdi. Reflecting on her journey, Sheetal shared that competing alongside able-bodied athletes was once a distant dream. Her persistence through repeated trials and setbacks finally culminated in this historic selection. She continues to serve as a role model for athletes with disabilities, proving that excellence knows no physical limitation.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Sheetal Devi is the first Indian para-athlete to be selected for an able-bodied international event.
• She will compete in the compound category at the Asia Cup 2025 Stage 3 in Jeddah.
• Sheetal was born with phocomelia and competes using her feet.
• She is also a Paralympics bronze medallist in the mixed team compound event.

Recognition and the Road Ahead

With her inclusion in the able-bodied Indian squad, Sheetal Devi has set a new benchmark for inclusivity in sports. Her success is likely to inspire structural changes in India’s sporting ecosystem, encouraging federations to adopt merit-based inclusion across all levels. As she prepares for the Jeddah competition, Sheetal stands as a beacon of courage and ambition for the next generation of athletes.