Sheetal Devi breaks new ground, qualifies for India's able-bodied archery team for Asia Cup

In a groundbreaking moment for Indian sports, Sheetal Devi, the world para-archery champion born without arms, has achieved another extraordinary milestone. The 18-year-old from Jammu & Kashmir has been selected for India’s able-bodied junior archery team for the upcoming Asia Cup Stage 3 in Jeddah, marking the first-ever inclusion of a para-athlete in an able-bodied Indian team.

Competing against more than 60 able-bodied archers during the national selection trials in Sonipat, Sheetal showcased remarkable consistency and determination, finishing third overall with a total of 703 points — matching top qualifier Tejal Salve’s score. Trained at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra, Sheetal narrowly edged out Maharashtra’s Dnyaneshwari Gadadhe by just 0.25 points to seal her place.

Sharing her joy on social media, Sheetal wrote, “When I started competing, I had a small dream — to one day compete alongside the able-bodied. I didn’t make it at first, but I kept going, learning from every setback. Today, that dream is one step closer.” A bronze medalist at the 2024 Paris Paralympics, Sheetal continues to inspire millions, proving that determination and willpower can overcome any physical limitation.