INDIAN PARA-ARCHER Sheetal Devi has been named ‘Para Archer of the Year’ by World Archery, capping a remarkable rise that has seen her emerge as one of the brightest stars in global para sport.
The recognition comes on the back of a breakthrough 2025 season, where the 18-year-old scripted history by winning gold at the World Para Archery Championships in Gwangju, South Korea, becoming the first armless woman to achieve the feat.
Sheetal’s award-winning campaign was defined by her dominant performances at the World Championships, where she defeated reigning Paralympic champion Öznur Cüre Girdi in the compound women’s final. She also secured additional medals at the event, underlining her consistency at the highest level and strengthening her position among the world’s top para archers.
The accolade from World Archery reflects her rapid ascent in the sport, having already been recognised as Best Women Para Archer of the Year earlier in her career.
Born in Kishtwar, Jammu & Kashmir, Sheetal Devi was born with phocomelia, a rare condition resulting in the absence of arms. Despite this, she has redefined the sport by mastering archery using her feet and core strength.
Her journey has been marked by rapid progression as Asian Para Games gold medallist; youngest Indian Paralympic medallist at Paris 2024 (mixed team bronze); World No. 1 ranking in women’s compound para archery
She has also broken barriers by earning selection to India’s able-bodied archery setup, further highlighting her exceptional skill level. Her achievements have also been acknowledged domestically, including the Arjuna Award in 2023 and multiple international honours.
