History Made: Armless Archer Sheetal Devi Joins India’s Able-Bodied Team
The Live Info Media
The incredible journey of Sheetal Devi, an 18-year-old para-archer, has reached a new, historic milestone. Born without arms due to a rare congenital condition called phocomelia, Sheetal has successfully qualified for India’s able-bodied Junior Archery Team for the upcoming Asia Cup Stage 3 in Jeddah, scheduled for next month.
Earning a Spot Among the Best
This achievement is groundbreaking because Sheetal competed head-to-head against over 60 able-bodied archers in the women’s compound category at the national selection trials in Sonipat. Her sheer skill and consistency allowed her to secure an impressive third-place finish in the final rankings, earning a coveted spot on the Indian squad. This marks the first time an Indian para-athlete has been selected for an able-bodied international meet.
A Long-Held Dream Comes True
For Sheetal, this is the realization of a personal, long-held ambition. She shared her joy on social media, stating: “When I started competing, I had a small dream – to one day compete alongside the able-bodied… Today, that dream is one step closer.” She first tested herself against able-bodied archers at the 2022 junior nationals but missed out, showing her remarkable dedication to persist and improve.
From Para-Champion to International Star
Sheetal’s rise in the world of archery has been nothing short of extraordinary. Earlier this year, she became the first female armless world champion in para-archery by winning the gold medal at the 2025 World Para Archery Championships. In the final, she defeated the Paralympic champion Oznur Cure Girdi of Türkiye, a world-class archer who also competes in able-bodied events—a key source of inspiration for Sheetal.
A Medalist at the Paralympics
Just a year ago, at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, Sheetal clinched a bronze medal in the compound mixed team event with Rakesh Kumar. This feat made her India’s youngest Paralympic medallist at just 17 and only the second armless archer in history to step onto a Paralympic podium. Her early career also saw success in 2023, where she claimed two Asian Para Games gold medals and finished the season ranked World No. 1 in women’s compound para-archery.
The Power of Skill Over Limitation
Sheetal competes by shooting arrows using her feet and shoulders, demonstrating a unique and highly refined technique. Her selection for the Asia Cup team, which is based purely on merit and performance, is a powerful statement. It proves that skill and determination can break down conventional barriers, opening up new pathways for inclusivity and setting a revolutionary standard for Indian sports. Sheetal Devi’s story is a profound example of the unbeatable spirit in sports.
