Sheetal Devi Makes History in India’s Junior Team

World Championship-winning para archer Sheetal Devi has carved a new chapter in Indian sports history. She has been selected for India’s able-bodied junior team for the Asia Cup Stage 3 in Jeddah, becoming the first para athlete to represent the country in an able-bodied international competition.

A Dream Realized

Sharing the news on social media, Sheetal wrote:

"When I started competing, I had a small dream – to one day compete alongside able-bodied athletes and win medals. I didn’t make it at first, but I kept going, learning from every setback. Now, that dream is one step closer."

Encouraging others, she added:

"Dreams take time. Work. Believe. Repeat."

Anand Mahindra Applauds Her Resilience

Industrialist Anand Mahindra praised her determination, saying:

"Sheetal, I never had ANY doubt that you were ‘able-bodied.’ In fact, you are more able-bodied than all the rest of us. And your heart is the strongest. You make India proud."

Earlier this year, Mahindra had gifted Sheetal a brand-new Mahindra Scorpio-N as a token of admiration for her remarkable achievements.

A Historic Moment for Indian Sports

Sheetal Devi’s selection is not just a personal triumph; it marks a historic milestone for para athletes in India. Her journey symbolizes that with hard work, perseverance, and belief, barriers can be broken and dreams can become reality. Her achievement will inspire countless young athletes across the country to aim higher and challenge conventional limits.