Srinagar, Jan 09: In a heartwarming saga of triumph over adversity, Sheetal Devi, the talented para-archer born with Phocomelia, was conferred with the prestigious Arjuna Award at the National Sports event, a momentous occasion graced by President Smt Droupadi Murmu.
Born without arms in the impoverished Loi Dhar village of Kishtwar district, Jammu and Kashmir, Sheetal’s life took a transformative turn when the Indian Army embraced her journey in 2019. The Dogra Regiment, specifically 11 Rashtriya Rifles, adopted Sheetal in May 2020, offering not just financial support but also becoming a beacon of hope for her and her family.
The Army’s involvement proved pivotal, as within a short span, Sheetal emerged as an ace para-archer, securing two gold and one silver medal at the Asian Para Games in Hangzhou, China. Her triumphant return to her village was marked by a hero’s welcome, with accolades pouring in from all corners.
Sheetal’s story began to unfold when the Army identified her during a youth event in 2019. Despite being born into a financially struggling family, her parents, Maan Singh and Shakti Devi, ensured she received an education. The Army’s intervention, led by the Dogra Regiment, initiated a series of events that changed Sheetal’s life.
Notably, in May 2021, the Army sought the assistance of Meghna Girish, the mother of Major Akshay Girish, for obtaining artificial hands for Sheetal. With Meghna Girish’s prompt actions and involvement of actor Anupam Kher, Sheetal received state-of-the-art bionic arms in October 2021, fittingly done in Bengaluru by Dr. Srikanth and his team.
Preeti Rai from NGO The Being You played a crucial role during Sheetal’s stay in Bengaluru, introducing her to various sports personalities and ultimately guiding her towards para archery. Coaches Kuldeep Baidwan and Abhilasha Chaudhary, along with support from the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, contributed to her training and development.
The Rashtriya Rifle battalion coordinated all aspects of Sheetal’s journey, ensuring her family received the necessary support. Her first international exposure in May this year resulted in medals at the world archery event, setting the stage for her stellar performance at the Asian Para Games.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who had met Sheetal, had bestowed his blessings and encouragement for her future endeavors.
Defence officials summarized Sheetal’s journey, stating, “Born without hands (Phocomelia), Sheetal’s journey from the rugged mountains of her homeland to the international stage is a testament to the human spirit’s indomitable power.”