The accomplishment of Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar at the Paris Paralympics is nothing short of extraordinary, marking a historic moment not only for Jammu and Kashmir but for India as a whole. By securing a bronze medal in the Mixed Team Compound Open Archery event, these two archers have etched their names into the annals of sporting history, becoming the first Olympic medallists from Jammu and Kashmir. Their success transcends the realm of sports, symbolising the triumph of the human spirit and determination over adversity.
The journey of Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar to the Paralympic podium is a testament to their unwavering dedication, resilience, and passion for archery. Rakesh Kumar, a 39-year-old athlete from Katra in the Reasi district, found a new purpose in life after a tragic accident in 2010 left him paralysed from the waist down. Supported by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Rakesh channelled his energy into archery, and over the years, he has become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring athletes, not just in Jammu and Kashmir but across the nation. Rakesh’s journey has been marked by numerous accolades, including gold medals at the Para World Championship and the Asian Para Games. His first Paralympic medal is a culmination of these efforts, serving as a reminder that with determination and support, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.
On the other hand, 17-year-old Sheetal Devi, hailing from the remote village of Loidhar in Kishtwar, has emerged as a rising star in para-archery. Her achievements are nothing short of remarkable, considering her young age. Sheetal’s journey to the Paralympics was paved with numerous accolades, including a gold medal at the 2022 Asian Para Games, being named the Best Youth Athlete of the Year by the Asian Paralympics Committee in 2023, and receiving the prestigious Arjuna Award in January 2024. At the Paris Paralympics, she made history as the youngest competitor in women’s para-archery, and her performance in the individual compound rankings rounds, where she achieved a personal best mark of 703, set a new benchmark for future athletes.
The duo’s victory in the bronze medal match against Italy’s Matteo Bonacina and Eleonora Sarti, with a narrow score of 156-155, exemplifies the fine margins that define success at the highest level of sport. All this results from a well-structured support system provided by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board. The investment of Rs 2.5 to 3 crore annually over the past 8 to 9 years has started to bear fruit, as evidenced by the achievements of Rakesh and Sheetal. The Shrine Board’s commitment to promoting sports, particularly Olympic disciplines such as shooting, archery, and athletics, is commendable. The success of Rakesh and Sheetal has provided a new impetus to the sports complex, inspiring budding athletes and setting new benchmarks for future generations. The Board’s focus on nurturing talent from grassroots levels, providing scholarships, and ensuring access to world-class coaching and facilities has been instrumental in transforming the lives of athletes like Rakesh and Sheetal.
The achievements of the duo have brought pride to Jammu and Kashmir, a region that has often been overshadowed by conflict and political unrest. Their success serves as a beacon of hope, highlighting the potential for excellence that lies within the region’s youth. It also emphasises the importance of sports as a tool for empowerment, social integration, and national pride. Their victory is not just a personal triumph but a moment of collective celebration for the entire nation. It also serves as a reminder of the untapped potential in India’s hinterlands, waiting to be harnessed with the right support and opportunities. It also underscores the importance of providing equal opportunities for all, regardless of physical abilities or socio-economic backgrounds. This is not the end but a start for many. With proper support, many more medals, including gold, are in waiting.
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