Indian para archers delivered a historic performance at the World Para Archery Championships 2025, finishing second on the medal table with an unprecedented five medals two gold, two silver and one bronze.
This marks India’s best-ever tally at the global event and reflects the rapid rise of the nation’s para archery program on the world stage. In a field stacked with world-class talent, India’s athletes rose to the challenge with poise and precision. The team’s collective effort placed them behind only China, who topped the table with 12 medals (6 gold, 3 silver, 3 bronze), while surpassing traditional powerhouses like Mongolia, Turkey and Korea. India’s final count of 2 gold, 2 silver and 1 bronze represents a remarkable improvement over previous editions one gold, one silver and one bronze in 2023, and just two silvers in 2022.
Sheetal Devi Leads the Charge
At the heart of India’s success was Sheetal Devi, the armless archer who has redefined the limits of human ability. The 20-year-old, already a global icon, emerged as India’s standout performer with three medals gold in the Compound Women’s individual event, silver in the Compound Women’s Doubles with Sarita, and bronze in the Compound Mixed Team alongside Toman.
Sheetal’s individual gold reaffirmed her status as one of the sport’s most dominant forces. Known for her flawless technique and unwavering composure, she outshot a field of seasoned champions to claim the top spot on the podium. Her silver in the doubles showcased her adaptability and partnership skills, while the bronze in the mixed team added yet another layer to her growing legacy.
Her story continues to inspire millions in India and beyond. Born without arms, Sheetal uses her legs to draw the bow, executing shots with a combination of strength, balance and mental fortitude that has stunned the archery world. With three medals in Doha, she now stands among the most decorated para archers in Indian history.
Toman’s Golden Moment
Matching Sheetal’s brilliance was Toman, who captured two medals including the coveted gold in the Compound Men’s individual category, although it was a heartbreaking end to Rakesh Kumar campaign in the gold medal match. Toman displayed remarkable consistency throughout the tournament, defeating some of the sport’s biggest names with clinical precision. His victory under pressure marked a career breakthrough and underscored India’s growing strength in men’s para archery.
Toman also teamed up with Sheetal for the bronze medal in the Compound Mixed Team event, a partnership that proved crucial in pushing India up the medal table. His ability to perform in both individual and team formats highlights the depth of talent in the Indian squad. India’s silver medals came in two key events: the Compound Women’s Doubles, where Sheetal Devi and Sarita combined to finish runners-up, and the Compound Men’s individual, where Rakesh Kumar fought valiantly to secure second place. These podium finishes added critical points to India’s medal tally and demonstrated the country’s balance across multiple categories.
A Steep Climb from Past Editions
India’s rise in para archery has been nothing short of extraordinary. At the 2022 World Championships, the country managed only two silver medals, followed by a more encouraging three medals (one gold, one silver, one bronze) in 2023. The 2025 haul of five medals, including two golds, is not only a statistical leap but also a statement of intent ahead of future Paralympic cycles. Such progress reflects years of investment in athlete development, coaching, and sports science. The Indian team’s improved preparation ranging from mental conditioning to access to advanced training facilities has clearly paid dividends on the biggest stage.
The success in Doha is expected to boost India’s standing within the international para archery community. Finishing second in the world, ahead of established nations like Korea and Turkey, signals a shift in the competitive landscape. With the Los Angeles 2028 Paralympics on the horizon, India’s para archers have announced themselves as serious medal contenders.
Moreover, the championships served as a platform for younger athletes to gain invaluable experience. The exposure to high-pressure matches against world champions will strengthen the next generation of Indian para archers and ensure sustained success in the coming years.
The Indian contingent’s performance has sparked celebrations back home, with fans and officials hailing the team’s achievement as a landmark moment in the history of Indian para sports. Sports authorities have promised continued support to para athletes, emphasizing the role of inclusive policies in nurturing talent across the country. For Sheetal Devi and Toman, the accolades go beyond medals. Their victories embody the spirit of perseverance and the power of sport to transcend physical limitations. Their triumphs in Doha are more than just numbers on a medal table they are stories of courage that inspire millions to dream beyond barriers.
Medal Table – World Para Archery Championships 2025
1.China – 6 Gold, 3 Silver, 3 Bronze (12 total)
2.India – 2 Gold, 2 Silver, 1 Bronze (5 total)
3.Mongolia – 2 Gold (2 total)
4.Turkey – 1 Gold, 3 Silver (4 total)
5.Korea – 1 Gold, 1 Bronze (6 total)
As the team returns home with their best-ever haul, India’s para archery journey stands as a testament to resilience, innovation, and unyielding ambition.
With heroes like Sheetal Devi and Toman leading the way, the future of Indian para archery looks brighter than ever.
