Sheetal Devi Makes History as First Indian Para-Athlete in Able-Bodied International Event

India’s Sheetal Devi, an 18-year-old para-archery world champion from Jammu and Kashmir, has made history by becoming the first Indian para-athlete selected for an able-bodied international competition. She will represent India in the compound category at the Asia Cup 2025 Stage 3, set to take place in Jeddah from December 9 to 16. This achievement stands as a landmark moment for Indian sports, celebrating inclusivity and determination beyond physical boundaries.

Sheetal Devi Makes History as First Indian Para-Athlete in Able-Bodied International Event

Historic Selection for the Asia Cup 2025

Sheetal secured her position in the 16-member Indian archery squad after a brilliant performance at the national trials held at the Sports Authority of India Centre, Sonepat. Competing against 60 able-bodied female archers, she scored 703 points — 352 and 351 in two rounds — showcasing her precision and consistency.
Her selection marks a turning point for para-athletes in India, as she joins an event that has traditionally featured able-bodied junior competitors, breaking long-standing barriers in the sporting world.

Breaking Barriers in Indian Para Sports

Born with phocomelia, a rare congenital condition that left her without arms, Sheetal learned to shoot using her feet and shoulders. Through years of intense training and perseverance, she mastered her unique technique, earning global recognition.
While Indian para-athletes like Praveen Kumar, Sumit Antil, and Manish Narwal have competed in national-level able-bodied events, Sheetal becomes the first to qualify internationally, making her achievement truly groundbreaking.

Inspiration and Determination

Sheetal credits her inspiration to Oznur Cure Girdi, a para and able-bodied archer from Türkiye. Her journey reflects unwavering determination, overcoming multiple challenges to achieve her dream of competing alongside able-bodied athletes.
A Paralympic bronze medallist in the mixed team compound event, Sheetal continues to inspire athletes across India to dream big, no matter their physical limitations.

The Road Ahead

With her inclusion in the able-bodied squad, Sheetal Devi has set a new standard for inclusivity and excellence in Indian sports. Her achievement is expected to influence policy changes, encouraging equal opportunities based on merit and performance.
As she prepares for the Asia Cup 2025 in Jeddah, Sheetal represents not just India but the limitless potential of the human spirit.

Exam-Oriented Notes

Sheetal Devi – First Indian para-athlete selected for an able-bodied international event.
Will compete at Asia Cup 2025 Stage 3 in Jeddah (Dec 9–16, 2025).
Born with phocomelia, shoots using her feet and shoulders.
Scored 703 points at national trials in Sonepat.
Paralympic bronze medallist in mixed team compound event.
Inspired by Oznur Cure Girdi of Türkiye.

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Question & Answer

Q1. Who became the first Indian para-athlete to be selected for an able-bodied international event?
(a) Praveen Kumar
(b) Sumit Antil
(c) Sheetal Devi
(d) Manish Narwal
Answer: Sheetal Devi

Q2. In which event will Sheetal Devi represent India in 2025?
(a) World Archery Championship
(b) Asia Cup Stage 3, Jeddah
(c) Commonwealth Games
(d) Asian Games 2026
Answer: Asia Cup Stage 3, Jeddah

Q3. What rare condition was Sheetal Devi born with?
(a) Dwarfism
(b) Phocomelia
(c) Muscular Dystrophy
(d) Arthrogryposis
Answer: Phocomelia

Q4. How many points did Sheetal Devi score in the qualification rounds at national trials?
(a) 695
(b) 703
(c) 710
(d) 688
Answer: 703

Q5. Which country’s para-archer inspired Sheetal Devi?
(a) Japan
(b) Turkey
(c) France
(d) Spain
Answer: Turkey

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