Sheetal Devi, 17-Year-Old Armless Archer, Becomes World's No. 1 Para Archer, Receives Arjuna Award

Sheetal Devi, a 17-year-old para archer from Jammu and Kashmir, has achieved remarkable success in the world of archery despite being born without arms. She has now become the world's number one para archer and has been honored with the prestigious Arjuna Award. Sheetal's journey as an archer began when she was inspired by paralympic swimmer Sharath Gayakwad and blind Indian cricketer Shekhar Naik. Despite her rare medical condition called phocomelia, which affected her arm development, Sheetal's determination and passion for archery remained unwavering. Under the guidance of former archer and coach Kuldeep Vedwan, Sheetal developed her unique technique of using her feet and legs for shooting. She honed her skills at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra, where coaches had never trained someone without upper limbs before. Sheetal's talent and hard work paid off when she competed in various international championships. In 2023, she made history by becoming the first armless woman to win a Para World Archery Championships medal. She also clinched three medals, including two golds, at the Para Asian Games and a gold medal at the Khelo India Para Games. Her extraordinary accomplishments and perseverance in overcoming physical challenges have earned her accolades and admiration from around the world. Sheetal's recent recognition with the Arjuna Award further solidifies her status as an inspiration and role model for aspiring athletes and individuals who aim to break barriers and achieve greatness. Sheetal Devi's remarkable journey shows the power of determination, resilience, and the human spirit, inspiring others to pursue their dreams regardless of the obstacles they face.

The Archer Who Triumphed Without Arms: Sheetal Devi's Astonishing Tale

Sheetal Devi, a 16-year-old with an indomitable spirit, has captured the world's attention by clinching three medals at the Asian Para Games held in Hangzhou, China. Sheetal who hails from Kishtwar, Jammu and Kashmir, was born with Phocomelia, a rare condition that left her with underdeveloped limbs. However, this did not deter her from pursuing her dreams. Sheetal's journey to becoming a celebrated para-athlete traces its roots back to her childhood days when she used to climb trees for fun. This seemingly ordinary pastime unwittingly strengthened her upper body, honed her athleticism, and drew the notice of scouts during a local event organized by the Indian Army in 2021. There was a glimmer of hope when Sheetal considered getting a prosthetic arm, but it didn't fit. Nevertheless, Sheetal's mentors and guides did not give up on her. They drew inspiration from American para-athlete Matt Stutzman, who astounded the world by shooting with his legs in the 2012 London Paralympics. Sheetal began training at the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Sports Complex in Katra. Her coaches, Abhilasha Chaudhary and Kuldeep Vedwan, ingeniously modified a releaser into a shoulder releaser and devised a unique string mechanism that allowed Sheetal to pull the trigger and release the arrow with her chin and mouth. Sheetal's daily regimen of archery practice evolved from 50 shots a day to a staggering 300, and her hard work paid off. She clinched a silver medal in the Para Open Nationals in Sonepat, followed by a series of gold medals and another second-place finish in the Para Games. The world took notice of Sheetal's extraordinary achievements, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulating her and acknowledging her remarkable journey. Sheetal has proven that with determination and focus, no obstacle is insurmountable. At the tender age of 16, she stands poised to continue reaching for the sky and inspiring us all on her incredible journey.