Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha bestowed certificates of excellence upon para archers Sheetal Devi and Rakesh Kumar, along with their coach Abhilasha Choudhary, in recognition of their exceptional achievements at the recent Asian Para Games. He lauded their unwavering determination and remarked that their triumphs would undoubtedly inspire and invigorate a robust sports culture within the Union Territory.
Devi, a remarkable 16-year-old archer, made history by becoming the first woman to secure two gold medals at a single Asian Para Games. Her exceptional talent was evident in her gold medal-winning performances in both the women’s individual compound event and the mixed team event alongside Kumar. She further demonstrated her prowess by securing a silver medal in the women’s doubles compound event.
Kumar, an equally talented archer, also showcased his skill by clinching a silver medal in the men’s individual compound archery event, showcasing his resilience in a closely contested match. He further added to his accolades by securing a silver medal in the men’s doubles compound open event alongside Suraj Singh.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed his immense pride in the duo’s remarkable achievements, emphasizing that their victories had not only brought glory to the nation but also ignited a spark of inspiration among the youth of Jammu and Kashmir. He firmly believed that their unwavering determination and unwavering spirit would serve as a driving force in popularizing a robust sports culture within the Union Territory.
Sinha also extended his appreciation to the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, coaches, and support staff of the academy for their unwavering dedication and contributions in promoting sports within the Union Territory. Their efforts, he remarked, had played a pivotal role in nurturing and honing the talents of exceptional athletes like Devi and Kumar.
The ceremony, held at the Raj Bhawan, was attended by Principal Secretary to the Lieutenant Governor, Mandeep Kumar Bhandari, and Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board Anshul Garg. Their presence underscored the significance of the event and the unwavering support for sporting endeavors within the Union Territory.
